Historical Aspects of the Sociology of the Bendel State of Nigeria

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Periodical article

Title:	Historical Aspects of the Sociology of the Bendel State of Nigeria
Author:	Otite, Onigu
Year:	1977
Periodical:	Journal of the Historical Society of Nigeria
Volume:	9
Issue:	1
Period:	December
Pages:	37-61
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	ethnicity state government Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) History and Exploration
Abstract:	In this article, the case of the Bendel State of Nigeria is used to argue that the collaboration of historians and sociologists is vital in a full analysis and in the understanding of any society. The Bendel State, a plural society, came into being in 1963 and has retained its boundaries almost intact ever since in spite of new boundary adjustments. Historical and sociological studies of the state show that its peoples are linked not only to one another but also to outside societies and cultures. This point and the fact of pre-colonial ethnic dominance of one group by another, do not form part of modern government theory. This theory accords equality to all etnic groups and, through the Government Development Committee/Council programme, promotes the assertion of local symbols and identities. The result is that there are both different levels and different kinds of identity which operate in the State. In the process we are faced with the alternation of two phases, the one characterised by alliances and unity against outsiders and the other by internal conflicts in which big/small brothers from outside the state participate. Ref.