Totems of Anlo Clans And Their Functions
Every Anlo male and female is said to belong to one of 15 clans known as ‘hlɔwo’ and each clan or ‘hlɔ’ is identified by a number of paternal line called ‘tɔ-ƒome’ The 15 clans are Laƒe, Amlade, Adzovia, Bate, Like, Bamee, Tovi, Klevi, Ɣetsofe, Agave, Tsiame, Amɛ, Dzevi, Ʋifeme and Blu. Membership of a clan carries many distinguishing characteristics in the form of names, food taboos, clan totem which is associated with stories about its origins or their founding ancestors. Laƒe Totems: Monitor lizard ‘eve’, Antelope ‘se’ and Sparrow ‘atsutsrɔe’ Taboos: Members of this clan are forbidden to destroy or eat totem animals. If any totem animal is found dead its body must be covered with leaves or if possible given a burial. Violation of the taboo may result in your demise. Clan cults: Aʋadoʋaklo, Kodzikli, Aʋadatsi, Tsiamitsi. The Laƒe clan is regarded as the oldest of all the Anlo clans. Their legendry ancestor, Atsu Ʋenya, was reputed to have led the Anlo on their migration