Inter-group relations among the Esan from the pre- colonial period to 1960

Abstract

This essay interrogates inter-group relations among the Esan peoples of Edo State. It becomes necessary because adequate attention to microhistory of this nature is germane to the evolution of credible Nigerian historiography. It argues that the Esan people have close affinities to the Benin, which they see as their ancestral home. Indeed, it takes the Oba of Benin to coronate the reigning sovereigns in Esanland. It also argues that the various traditions of origin of the people demonstrate that the peoples of Esanland migrated from the great Benin Empire. It further argues that cultural festivals played an important role by providing linkages and contacts for the Esan people to be engaged in intergroup relations. The article then established the factors that promoted intergroup relations among the various Esan groups as trade, trade routes, markets, diplomacy, and intermarriages. It also argues that in the pre-colonial era, the various kings were absolute monarchs in theory because they were vested with powers over the life and death of their subjects within their various domains. The study is organized into six parts aside from the introduction and conclusion. The first part examined the traditions of origins as pointers for intergroup relations. The second and third parts focused on the weather, climate, and culture of the people respectively. The fourth part examined political organization, while the fifth part focused on the economic activities of the people. Finally, the sixth discussed the colonial administration of Esanland.