N. C. Ejituwu and the Historiography of Niger Delta Inter-Group Relations

Abstract

The Niger Delta has an interesting history of inter-group relations with attendant interchange of ideas and influences that reflected its heterogeneous and multi-polar character. However, the apparent predominant historiography of these inter-group relations tend to demonstrate an inherent prejudice against Andoni (Obolo) contrary to historical facts that portray her military exploits and significant influences on the evolution and peopling of the region and beyond. Primarily, this work aims at analyzing the role of Nkparom Claude Ejituwu in the historical reconstruction narratives of the complex inter-group relations woven around inter-marriages, inter-related migrations, commercial rivalries or competitions for economic resources, wars and fluid alliances, and traditional diplomacies with intricate outcomes. The study utilized primary and secondary sources to demonstrate the terrific historical, cultural, economic and political exchanges between Andoni and her neighbours as well as the strength of Ejituwu's scholarship in the deconstruction of orthodox stereotypes in the historiography of Niger Delta inter-group interactions. It concludes that Andoni had developed significant relations with and radically impacted her neighbours before European colonialism altered it to produce critical implications for Andoni in the post-colonial era.