GEOGRAPHY, ENVIRONMENT AND INTER-ETHNIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN THE OGONI AND THEIR SOUTHERN NEIGHHOURS IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Geography has tremendously influenced the complex network of contacts and interactions in human relations from time immemorial. These connections, which were at various times competitive, co-operative, conflictual or a combination of these, had resulted in profound inter-ethnic, cross-cultural and cross gender dividends. As a result, there has been significant manifestations of cross-cultural borrowing of language items, the admixture of cultural traits and ideas. Against this backdrop, this work attempts an examination of the effects of geography and environment on the relations between the Ogoni and their Southern neighbours. The study adopts the historical method of utilizing diverse secondary sources and multi-disciplinary approach in its analysis. The paper reveals that geographical and environmental factors fostered both congenial and conflictual intergroup relations between the Ogoni and their Southern neighbours. It further contends that the inter-ethnic conflict, which was intermittent and short, did not constitute any serious impediment to intergroup contacts. The study concludes that to promote and sustain peaceful co-existence, the Niger Delta and Nigerians at large should appreciate those common real or putative ties and linkages occasioned by geography and  ecology which are shared by these groups, the challenges faced by other ethnic groups and the potentials of each group which could be properly harnessed for the mutual benefits of others in the country especially now when disintegrative forces are threatening the corporate existence of Nigeria.