Explaining inter-ethnic harmony in Enugu city, South-eastern Nigeria, 1970–2003

Ethnicity is a prominent feature in Nigeria’s socio-economic environment and is fervently exhibited within the context of the ‘indigene-settler dichotomy’. As this encourages exclusivism, it has been a major factor responsible for violent conflicts across the country. While many urban spaces in the country have witnessed such conflicts, a few have not. This study examines the indigene-settler inter-relations in Enugu to determine why and how the city sustained ethnic coexistence, cooperation and harmony since the end of the civil war (1967– 1970). It demonstrates how, while ethnic attachment appeared to be strong, and while conflicts and occasional tensions did occur in the city, inter-ethnic relationships were cordial and symbiotic. It further identifies and interrogates cogent factors responsible for this trend. The paper argues that the constructive management of ethnic conflicts, as demonstrated in the city, could be efficient and productive. Despite optimism in Enugu’s peaceful condition, however, it concludes that potential complications could emanate, as the factors responsible for Enugu’s condition are amenable to change. Both primary and secondary sources (eighty-six in-person interviews, twelve focus group discussions, archival and secondary materials) were used within a multi-disciplinary framework.

Yoruba philosophy of law and interpretive analysis

No Abstract.African Journal for the psychological studies of social issues Vol. 10 (1&2) 2007: pp. 263-27

The Female Factor in Yoruba Traditional Festivals

This paper focuses on the dynamism of women in indigenous Yoruba festivals. This is an area in which women have featured with demonstration of wit and talent towards the promotion of cultural development. The paper states that there had been women of substance, whose role in the scheme of cultural development, cannot be under-estimated or glossed over. It examines some of the problems militating against the empowerment of women in Yoruba society. The paper outlines various features of the Yoruba traditional festivals, examining the roles performed by women and their significance in the unfolding of Yoruba history and culture. (Humanities Review Journal: 2002 2(2): 21-31