Ezinma, Okonkwo’s favorite child and Ekwefi’s only surviving daughter, is a significant figure in Things Fall Apart. She is intelligent, assertive, and compassionate, embodying qualities Okonkwo values in a son, which leads him to lament, “She should have been a boy.” Ezinma challenges traditional gender roles by displaying strength and insight uncommon for girls in Igbo society, highlighting her unique position in her family. Her relationship with Ekwefi is marked by mutual love and companionship, reflecting the emotional toll of Ekwefi’s losses and the joy of Ezinma’s survival. As an ogbanje (a spirit child), Ezinma represents Igbo spiritual beliefs, and her survival after the iyi-uwa ritual symbolizes hope and resilience. Ezinma’s character enriches the narrative by exploring themes of gender, family, and spirituality, making her a bridge between tradition and individuality in the novel.

Ekwefi, a strong and independent woman who challenges the traditional roles of women in Igbo society. She symbolizes female strength and resilience in a patriarchal culture, reflecting the enduring spirit of humanity. She is fiercely protective of her daughter, often going to great lengths to ensure her safety and well-being. Ekwefi's independence is also a defining characteristic. She chooses to leave her first husband to be with Okonkwo, a bold decision that reflects her unwillingness to be confined by societal expectations