Perspectives on Cross-Gender Relations in a Traditional Society: A Study of the Idoma of Central Nigeria

Abstract

In this paper, we have attempted to analyze perspectives on cross-gender relations in the pre-colonial Idoma society, the implications of this on Idoma women and the overall development process. From our analysis, it is evident that traditional Idoma had definite perceptions on the female gender in terms of her significance, what she can do and cannot and/or should not do. We were also able to demonstrate the fact that whereas the significance of women was never in doubt, the patriarchal context within which they performed their roles induced stereotypes that made it possible for their subordination and consequent marginalization by their male counterparts. It was from this prism that the real implications of socio-cultural attitudes towards women became critical issues in the type of gender relations which emerged.

Humanities Review Journal Vol. 5 2005: pp. 53-61