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THE NON- CENTRALIZED STATES OF NIGERIA BEFORE 1800 - WEEK ONE
Submitted by Tansi College on Wed, 01/07/2020 - 7:26am
THE NON- CENTRALIZED STATES OF NIGERIA BEFORE 1800
Performance Objectives At the end of this topic, students would be able to
1. State the origin of the Igbo
2. Define the meaning of non-centralised states
3. Mention the common features of non-centralised states
4. Discuss the social and political organization of the Igbo
5. Trace the significance of Age-grade in Igboland
WHAT ARE NON-CENTRALIZED STATES? These are independent ethnic groups that had no central
administration which means that they had no powerful ruler at the hand. The ethnic groups that fall into
this group are the Igbo, Birom, Angas, Urhobo, Isoko, Idoma, Tiv and Ibibio.
The people who lived in these societies, unlike their counterparts in Oyo and Benin which are centralized
for example, were distinguished by the ununified and relatively restricted socio - political structures in
which they ordered their lives. The small scale organization of these societies, did in some areas, permit
efficient democratic practices to take firm root in the respective communities because of the thorough
manner in which everybody was involved in governmental processes through family representations in
village elders' council, through clan meeting and through various age grades and village societies.
THE COMMON FEATURES OF THE NON - CENTRALIZED STATES
1. They had neither kings nor rulers but they had the eldest male member of their communities as their
leaders who had no executive powers.
2. There was general absence of law courts and prisons. The citizens were rather guided by the
customs, taboos and sanctions. Oracle was usually consulted in resolution of certain disputes.
3. There were no kingdoms or empire; the predominant political organizations were small autonomous
villages.
4. The wealthy and the influential persons usually occupied prominent positions in the society and could
influence decisions on important issues.
5. The settlement of these ethnic groups are scattered that is to say that houses were located any how
without planning in the villages and there was nothing like city walls or meats.
6. There were no wars of expansion perhaps due to lack of empires and kingdoms -c to be expanded.
Wars that took place wer- only inter - village wars.
7. They had various secret societies and title taking societies. Members of these societies enjoyed
respectable stance in the community.
8. Members of each autonomous community look upon each other as a relative probably because they
claimed to have originated from a common ancestor.
THEIGBO
ii. The Igbo people today inhabit the forest belt area between the Cross River, east of the river Niger and
Benin, west of the Niger and between the Igala to the north and the Niger Delta city - states to the
south. There had been a confusion on whether the Igbos are the real indigenes of the places they are
occupying today or whether they migrated from some where. Even if they are the real indigenes of
these places they are occupying; the time of their occupation is still uncertain but according to the
recent archaeological discoveries in Igbo - Ukwu, a village twenty - five miles South - East of Onitsha by a
team of researchers led by Professor Thurstan Shaw of Ibadan University, it is now believed that some
ancient Ibo people had settled in this area earlier than the 9lh century A. D. it is hoped that further
research in this field of study will yield interesting and much needed information about the origin of the
Igbo people.
iii. Also, according to G. T. Basden, one of those who are of the opinion that the Igbos migrated from
some where; "Igbos must have originated from Egypt or some where in the middle east". He arrived at
this conclusion after reflecting on the apparent similarities between the religious and circumcision
practices of the Igbos and those of the ancient Egyptians or the Hebrew.
iv. The Igbos today live in the following five pure Igbo States: Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Abia and Ebonyi
States of Nigeria. Igbos can also be seen in other States like Delta, Cross - river, Bayelsa and Rivers States
of Nigeria but in a very small number. According to some anthropologists, the early Igbo settlements
started at Nri in Anambra State or Isuama in Imo State.
v. The dominant physical features of most of Igbo country is thick tropical forest. This physical
environment has greatly influenced the history of the Igbo people. Firstly, the forest provided excellent
natural defence against invasions from external enemies. There was therefore no conquest on the Igbo
people which could have resulted in the establishment of an empire as was the case with the Fulani
conquest of Hausa land and parts of Northern Nigeria and northern Yoruba land or the Oyo conquest of
Dahomey.
vi. Secondly, the inaccessible nature of the forest made mobility and intercourse among the Igbo people
themselves who were mainly sedentary farmers difficult. Consequently, no one Igbo group was able to
unite the people under one government through conquest. These reasons partly explain why the Igbos
never evolved a centralized polity of the Yoruba or Dahomey type before or during the century. Another
reason often given is that the Igbos are by nature extremely egalitarian and individualistic. They have
intense love of personal freedom and very strong resentment for autocratic government over them. As a
result, they preferred living in small village republics where every grown - up male was regarded as
important as everyone else.
SOCIAL AND POLITICAL OGRANIZATION OF THE IGBO
The Igbo Political and Social Organization differs remarkably from that of the Hausa and other
centralized states. Two types of socio-political organization existed is Igbo land before the coming of the
European. These were the kingship or monarchical system and the village democracy of village
republican system.
(a) The Monarchical System
The monarchies were few in number and this system was found in the Igbo communities which had long
age contract with non-Igbo centralized states like Benin and Igala. These monarchical system existed in
areas as Aboh, Agbor, Asaba, Onitsha, Nri, Oguta and Arochukwu. They were not absolute rulers
because they had to take advice of their chiefs and were often guided by the realization that the 'king'
belonged to the masses, just as the masses belonged to the king. The chiefs who made up the council of
state, were drawn from various lineage groups.
(b) The Village Republic
The village republic was common and widespread in Igbo land. Village republics were autonomous
communities which managed their affairs independent of one another; they were usually small in size
and had thin population.
The Igbo had four main levels of government outside the family organization namely minimal lineage
group, the major lineage group the maximal lineage group and the village group.
1. The minimal lineage group 'Umunna' was made up of a number of nuclear families which
descended from the same father the eldest in this group is the Okpara, he presides the family meeting,
he also keeps the 'Ofo', the symbol of truth and justice. All adult male members were free to participate
in the group's meeting.
2. The meetings of the major lineage group the 'Ebo' were presided over by the oldest of the heads of
minimal lineage groups. Members of this group descended from a common ancestor. Each of the group
meetings was a council of the various minimal lineage groups. The meetings were mainly concerned
with offences against the group religion and public issues likely to break up the solidarity of the group.
Membership was open to all adult males. However, the group decision were dc-ninated by title-holder,
wealthy and highly respected persons.
3. The maximal lineage group 4Mba was the meeting point of people at the village level. All adult males
can attend the meeting of the village assembly through heads
HISTORY OF NIGERIA AND THE WIDER WORLD SINCE 1800
of the various lower lineage groups. The most senior of the major lineage usually presided over the
meeting which in most cases was an adhoc general assembly. 4. The village group Obodo was the
highest level of government in Igbo land. It was an autonomous mini-state. Members of the village-
group assembly were usually representatives of the villages. The meeting was presided over by the head
of the senior village. The assembly as well as issues of war and peace.
# Centralized States in Pre-Colonial Nigeria
## Overview of the Scheme of Work for Year 8
- **Week 1:** Non-Centralized States of Pre-Colonial Nigeria
- Definition of Non-Centralized State
- Characteristics of Non-Centralized States
- Examples: Tiv, Idoma, Ebira, Igbo, Urhobo, Oron, Anang, Ibibio, Egun
- **Week 2:** Tiv
- Origin and Legend of Tiv
- Socio-Political Structure
- Intergroup Relations with Neighbors
- Innovative Practices
- **Week 3:** Idoma
- Origin and Migration History
- Socio-Political Structure
- Intergroup Relations
- Innovations and Cultural Practices
- **Week 4:** Ebira
- Origin and Migration
- Socio-Political Structure
- Geographical Influence on Society
- Innovations and Cultural Practices
- **Week 5:** Igbo
- Origin and Historical Significance
- Socio-Political Structure
- Factors Uniting the Igbo in Pre-Colonial Times
- Significance of Age Grades
- **Week 6:** Urhobo
- Origin and Cultural Context
- Socio-Political Structure
- Geographical Impact on Society
- Cultural Innovations
- **Week 7:** Mid-Term Break
- **Week 8:** Oron
- Origin and Settlement History
- Socio-Political Hierarchy
- Significance of Secret Societies and Festivals
- **Week 9:** Ijaw/Ijo
- Origin and Settlement Patterns
- Socio-Political Structure
- Influence of Rivers on Development
- Innovations in Fisheries
- **Week 10:** Ibibio
- Origin and Migration History
- Socio-Political Structures
- Importance of Secret Societies
- **Week 11:** Anang
- Origin and Cultural Context
- Socio-Political Structure
- Significance of Masquerades
- **Week 12:** Egun/Ogu
- Origin and Cultural Heritage
- Socio-Political Structure
- Significance of Masquerades
- Traditional Birth Control Practices
- **Week 13:** Revision and Examination
## Detailed Week-by-Week Breakdown
### Week 1: Non-Centralized States
A non-centralized state is defined as a political entity where power is distributed among different
leaders rather than being concentrated in a single ruler. These societies, also referred to as accephalous
or stateless societies, operated through shared governance.
- **Characteristics:**
- Decentralized power structure
- Governance by elders
- Use of age-grade systems
- Influence of secret societies
- **Examples:**
- Tiv
- Idoma
- Ebira
- Igbo
- Urhobo
- Oron
- Anang
- Ibibio
- Egun
### Week 2: Tiv
The Tiv people trace their origins to a legendary figure named Tiv. They migrated from the present-day
Democratic Republic of Congo to Benue State around the 1750s. Their socio-political structure is
characterized by a decentralized governance led by elders, with leaders determined by age and
influence.
- **Socio-Political Structure:**
- Orya - Head of the family
- Ityo - Representative body
- Kwav (Age Grade) - Supports community needs
- Kur - Military head
- Drum Chief (Tor-Agbana) - Ceremonial leader
- **Intergroup Relations:**
- Trade
- Cultural exchange
- Marriage ties
- **Innovations:**
- A'nger fabric industry
- Swange dance
- Traditional medicine practices
### Week 3: Idoma
The Idoma people, with origins linked to a figure named Iduh, migrated to modern Benue State. Their
socio-political structure is organized around a king known as Oche, supported by a council of adult
males.
- **Innovations:**
- Pottery and crafts
- Traditional medicine practices
- Cultural dances and festivals
### Week 4: Ebira
Originating from Wukari, the Ebira people migrated to Kogi State due to conflicts. Their socio-political
organization is subdivided into clans, with each clan led by a traditional ruler called Otaru.
- **Socio-Political Features:**
- Clan-based leadership structure
- Council of Chiefs
- Age-grade systems for youth involvement
- **Geographical Impact:**
- Influence on settlement and agriculture
- Favorable climate for farming
### Week 5: Igbo
The Igbo people have debated origins, with some tracing back to Israel and others to the Nri Kingdom.
They have a unique socio-political structure based on villages and councils of elders.
- **Unity Factors:**
- Language and culture
- Trade relations
- Intermarriage
### Week 6: Urhobo
The Urhobo people inhabit Delta State and their origins are debated among historians. They have an
elder-based socio-political structure and utilize age-grade systems.
- **Geographical Importance:**
- Natural resources and agricultural potential
- Vulnerability to environmental changes
### Week 8: Oron
The Oron people reside in Akwa-Ibom and have an intricate socio-political structure that includes heads
and secret societies governing through traditional beliefs.
- **Cultural Significance:**
- Artistic craftsmanship
- Fishing techniques
- Traditional herbal medicine
### Week 9: Ijaw/Ijo
Indigenous to Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers, the Ijaw people have a decentralized political structure with
clans led by elders. The rivers are crucial for their culture and economy.
- **Fisheries Innovations:**
- Roasted fish dishes
- Various local soups
- Health benefits of fish consumption
### Week 10: Ibibio
The Ibibio, with links to traditions of different regions, have their socio-political structure organized into
clans and councils, playing significant roles in cultural maintenance.
- **Secret Societies:**
- Cultural preservation
- Conflict resolution
### Week 11: Anang
The Anang people's origins are traced back to Egypt or Israel. Their society includes a political structure
governed by elders, and masquerades play an important cultural role.
- **Family Unity:**
- Promotes creativity and collaboration within families
### Week 12: Egun/Ogu
The Egun people originally migrated from Dahomey and have a socio-political structure headed by their
king, the Akran. Their masquerades serve various cultural functions including promoting unity.
- **Traditional Birth Control:**
- Contributes to family planning and cultural preservation
MEANING OF A NON CENTRALISED STATE;
A non-centralised stateis the one in which political power is distributed among various units of
government ,power is not concentrated at the centre,In this form of government,small governing
authorities or bodies exist to share power in governance,it is also known as decentralized state.The igbo
society was a typical example of non centralized state during the pre-colonial era.
CHARACTERISTICS OF NON CENTRALIZED STATES;
[1] POWER DISTRIBUTION; Power is shared among the units of government,it is not concentrated on a
particular unit,
[2] SINGLE CONSTITUTION; Only one constitution is used to govern all the units of government,They all
derive their powers and functions from it
[3] WRITTEN CONSTITUTION;The body of law governing the society is written in a single document,it can
be referred to from time to time by leaders and citizens
[4]RIGID CONSTITUTION; The constitution is difficult to change,this prevents from changing it for selfish
reasons,
[5] SINGLE JUDICIARY; The supreme court exist and has the final decision on any legal matter in the
states that has been decided by lower courts,
[6] different executive bodies; each units oif government has its own executives but the one at central
units is the most powerful,
[7]DIFFERENT LEGISLATIVE HOUSES; different units of government have its own body of legislature to
make its laws
[8] FREEDOM TO MAKE POLITICS; The existing political units are free to make politics for the smooth
running of their government.
CLASS WORK
[1] Explain non-centralized states
[2]identify three characteristics of non centralized state
ASSIGNMENT;
Mention two characteristics of non centralized states in pre-colonial period
DISADVANTAGES OF NON- CENTRALIZED STATES;
1]It increases cost of governance
2]corrupt politicians at the grass roots may mismanage funds
3]it may bring about tribalism and ethnicity
4]it may retard growth of areas with immature and inexperienced political leaders
5]The entire nation may become weak politically
EXAMPLES OF NON-CENTRALIZED STATES IN PRECOLONIAL NIGERIA
TIV, IDOMA, EBIRA, IGBO,URHOBO,IJO[IJAW], ORO[ORON] IBIBIO, ANAANG
CLASSWORK;
1]state three advantages of non centralized states
2]state two disadvantages of non-centralized states
3] mention six examples of non-centralized states in pre-colonial Nigeria
ASSIGNMENT;
Identify the location of TIV on the map of Nigeria
Administer justice within the compound,
Determine sites for new buildings,
Distribute farmlands,
Identify burial ground
Admit, entertain and expel visitors as the case may be,
2] The Ityo:
This body was supreme and patrilineage. It discharge its duties according to tradition of the land. It was
made of representatives of difficult families [ sublineage] that made up particular lineage,its decision
was binding on every member of the group .
3] The Kwav [age trade] here, there were different age grades or group or groups,the age groups
assisted in fighting against witchcraft, helping each other in farming,
4] The Kur: He was the Tiv military head. His responsibilities were: to lead people in war, to defend
people against external aggression,
5]Tthe drum chief [ Tor-agbana]: He was in charge of drum group. He had no political or control.
6] Igba[ maternal clan]: This was the woman in charge of protecting young girls or ladies in times of
sickness and death.
CLASSWORK:
1] locate the Tiv on Nigeria map
2] trace the origin of the Tiv
3] mention at least three main leaders in Tiv society in pre-colonial days.
Assignment:
Narrate the story of IDIOM
Oche was the highest officer in Idomaland, he was the chief priest and president of all cults in the land,
he was regarded as mediator between the people and their ancestors, the position of Oche used to be
rotated among specific number of lineages, this method prevented monopoly of power by a particular
lineage.
Besides, Oche was the custodian of the law of the land, he ensured the laws were enforced and obeyed,
he also acted as the chief judge of court officer of appeal, Oche also used to perform executive functions
and was equally the chief external officer,
4]Age group: The Idomaland also had age-group and age ste as important parts of its political structure,
CLASSWORK:
1] Locate the Idoma on Nigeria map
2] Trace the origin of Idoma
3] Mention any two major officers in the political structure of Idoma in pre-colonial days
4]state any two function of the king in Idoma during pre-colonial days,
ASSIGNMENT:
Explain the history of EBIRA
Attah Omadiri
CLASSWORK:
1] locate Ebira on Nigeria map
2] trace the origin of the Ebira
3] mention the major leaders in Ebira in the pre-colonial days
ASSIGNMENT:
Briefly narrate the origin of the IGBOS
