THE ERI TRADITION(S) OF ORIGIN IN IGBO HISTORIOGRAPHY: REVISITING THE PROBLEMATIQUES AND CHALLENGES TO ORAL HISTORY

Abstract

Reconstructing the accounts of Igbo origin has remained a challenge for scholars due to the absence of a literate culture in traditional Igbo societies of the past. This situation has adversely affected the presentation of the histories of origin in Igboland. The reliance on oral traditions to solve this problem, on the other hand, is challenged by inconsistencies in various traditions on the same subject. This study, in the main, explored the Eri traditions of Igbo origin to resolve some issues arising therefrom, including his origin, his supposed offspring, primacy issues among his offspring, and to examine how historical objectivity can help the Igbo arrive at more agreeable traditions. Interviews were conducted and combined with archaeological findings and information from other sources to arrive at conclusions. The study, which was conducted in six main towns in Anambra and Kogi States, adopted descriptive, narrative, and thematic methods in its presentation. The findings would, supposedly, go a long way to revitalise certain cultural and traditional heritages of the people involved.