My Tribe: The Ebira People

Significant and insightful inquiries about the Ebira People

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37 min read

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Dear all,

As an Ebira person, I have taken a keen interest in learning about the history of my tribe. Having extensively read about our tribe's past, I believe it would be wise to create a set of questions and answers that will help students and children within and outside our country better understand our tribe's history.

I am doing this not for any political or regional gain but simply to educate people and promote the growth of knowledge about our tribe and origin. I strongly believe that by doing this, we will not only preserve our history but also promote a deeper appreciation of our culture and traditions.

I invite everyone to join me in this journey of discovery and enlightenment about our tribe's past. Let's work together to create a better future for ourselves and future generations.

Sincerely,

Gift Otohinoyi Ahmed


Please share and stay informed. Feel free to contact me through my social media handle.


SN

Question 

Answer

1

Who are the Ebira people

 The Ebira people are an ethnolinguistic group in Nigeria.

2

In which states are many of the Ebira people located

 Many of the Ebira people are located in Kogi State, Kwara State, Nasarawa State, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and Edo State.

3

What is the administrative center of the Ebira people

 Okene is said to be the administrative center of the Ebira people.

4

Where are the Ebira-speaking people in Kogi state located

 The Ebira-speaking people in Kogi state are not far from the Niger-Benue confluence.

5

What is the population of the Ebira people

 The population of the Ebira people is not readily available, but they are estimated to number in the millions.

6

What is the traditional occupation of the Ebira people

 The traditional occupations of the Ebira people is agriculture, hunting, and fishing.

7

What is the religion of the Ebira people

 The majority of the Ebira people practice Islam, while others practice Christianity and traditional African religion.

8

What is the language spoken by the Ebira people

 The Ebira people speak the Ebira language, which is a part of the Niger-Congo language family.

9

What is the history of the Ebira people

 The history of the Ebira people dates back to the pre-colonial era, and they have a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

10

What are some of the cultural practices of the Ebira people

 Some of the cultural practices of the Ebira people include the Eche-Ane festival, Ohueta festival, Anekwu festival, and Okunchi festival.

11

What is the traditional dress of the Ebira people

 The traditional dress of the Ebira people is brightly colored and includes a wrapper, blouse, and headtie for women, and a long robe and cap for men.

12

What is the traditional food of the Ebira people

 The traditional food of the Ebira people includes cassava, yam, plantain, beans, and various soups and stews.

13

What is the education level of the Ebira people

 The education level of the Ebira people is gradually increasing, with more children attending school and literacy rates improving.

14

What are some of the challenges faced by the Ebira people

 Some of the challenges faced by the Ebira people include poverty, lack of infrastructure, and conflicts over land and resources.

15

What is the role of women in Ebira society

 Women play a significant role in Ebira society, including in agriculture, commerce, and community development.

16

17

What is the political structure of the Ebira people

 The political structure of the Ebira people is largely traditional, with chiefs and village heads playing a significant role in governance.

18

What are some of the traditional crafts of the Ebira people

 Some of the traditional crafts of the Ebira people include weaving, pottery, and carving.

19

What is the traditional music of the Ebira people

 The traditional music of the Ebira people includes percussion instruments such as the talking drum and the ogene.

20

Who are the Ebiras

 The Ebiras are a group of people found in about 8 states of Nigeria including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

21

What are the sister groups of Ebira Tao

 The sister groups of Ebira Tao are Ebira Koto and Ebira Mozum (Kogi state), Ebira Panda, Ebira Oje/Toto (Nassarawa state), Ebira Etuno (Edo state), Ebira Agatu (Benue state) and Ebira Oloko (Ondo/Oyo/Osun states).

22

Where do the Ebiras trace their origin to

 The Ebiras trace their origin to Wukari (in the present Taraba state).

23

What was the Ebiras' role in the Kwararafa confederation

 The Ebiras were an integral part of the Kwararafa confederation.

24

When did the Ebiras migrate out of Wukari

 The Ebiras migrated out of Wukari in about 1680 AD.

25

Who did the Ebiras migrate with

 The Ebiras migrated with the Idoma and Igala.

26

Why did the Ebiras migrate out of Wukari

 The Ebiras migrated out of Wukari over a chieftaincy dispute.

27

How did the Ebiras split into various groups

 The Ebiras split into various groups and settled in different locations between 1680 and 1750 AD.

28

When did Ebira Tao settle at Ebira Opete

 Ebira Tao settled at Ebira Opete in the vicinity of Upake in Ajaokuta LGA.

29

Where did Ebira Tao sojourn with the Igalas

 Ebira Tao sojourned with the Igalas at Idah.

30

What was the name of the place where Ebira Tao settled after leaving Wukari

 Ebira Tao settled at Ebira Opete.

31

Who compiled the history of Ebira's origin

 The history of Ebira's origin was compiled from Attah Omadivi and other Ebiran Clan Heads by the British colonial administrators in early 20th century.

32

What is the significance of the Agidibo in Ebira culture

 The Agidibo is beaten by the elders to salute the spirits in Ebira culture.

33

Where is the largest Ebira group found

 The largest Ebira group is found in Ebira Tao.

34

When did the British colonial administrators compile the history of Ebira's origin

 The British colonial administrators compiled the history of Ebira's origin in the early 20th century.

35

What is the name of the river that the Ebiras crossed

 The Ebiras crossed the River Niger.

36

Who is considered the father of Ebira Tao?

Itaazi is considered the father of Ebira Tao.

37

What did Itaazi do for Ebira Tao?

Itaazi led Ebira Tao to their premier settlement in Ebiraland.

38

How many sons did Itaazi have?

Itaazi had five (5) sons.

39

Which districts in Ebiraland were founded by Itaazi's sons?

Itaazi's sons founded the districts of Adavi, Okehi, Eyika, Okengwe, and Ihima.

40

What was the name of Itaazi's daughter?

Itaazi's daughter was named Ohunene.

41

Where did Ohunene settle?

Ohunene settled in Eganyi district.

42

Who are the descendants of Itaazi's children in Ebiraland?

The members of the various clans in Ebiraland are descendants of Itaazi's children.

43

How many children did Ohizi have?

Ohizi had five children.

44

What are the names of the five traditional Adavi clans named after Ohizi's children?

The five traditional Adavi clans named after Ohizi's children are upopo-uvete (Apasi), Uka, Idu (Aniku), Adeyika, and Uhwami.

45

What migrant group from Eganyi is also found in Adavi?

The migrant group from Eganyi known as Ezi-Onogu clan is also found in Adavi.

46

Who are the sons of Ododo, the ancestors of Okehi clans?

The sons of Ododo, the ancestors of Okehi clans, were Okovi Oviri and Enwgukonyai.

47

How many children did Obaji, the founder of Eyika, have?

Obaji, the founder of Eyika, had ten children.

48

What are the names of Obaji's ten children?

The names of Obaji's ten children are Ohiaga, Iyewe, Avassa, Ehemi, Anchi, Epoto, Egiri, Ubobo, Ogu, and Eyire.

49

How many sons did Uga of Okengwe have?

Uga of Okengwe had two sons.

50

What socio-political coalition did the clans in Okengwe district form?

The clans in Okengwe district formed a socio-political coalition known as Ada-ehi.

51

How many children did Ochuga have?

Ochuga had six children.

52

What are the names of the six clans in Ihima that are descended from Ochuga's children?

The six clans in Ihima that are descended from Ochuga's children are Emani, Oha/Idu, Ohueta, Ure, Ohongwa, and Odumi.

53

What is the name of the seventh clan in Ihima?

The seventh clan in Ihima is Akuta.

54

Where did the Akuta clan migrate from?

The Akuta clan migrated from Okengwe.

55

Was every clan in Eganyi descended from Ohunene?

No, not every clan in Eganyi was descended from Ohunene.

56

What are the names of the clans in Eganyi?

The clans in Eganyi are Ede, Esugu, Eheda, Ogu, Onoko, Idu, Anavapa, and Ogodo.

57

Which ethnic group constitutes the Middle Belt zone of Nigeria

 The Ebira people constitute one of the ethnic groups in the Middle Belt zone of Nigeria.

58

When did the Ebira people evolve a centralized form of leadership

 The Ebira people did not evolve a centralized form of leadership until the advent of the British colonial authorities.

59

Who brought together the various Ebira clans under one leadership in 1902

 The British colonial authorities brought together the various Ebira clans under the leadership of Attah Omadivi in 1902.

60

What event marked the evolution of a monarchical form of administration in Ebiraland

 The year 1902 marked the evolution of a monarchical form of administration in Ebiraland.

61

What was the role of the British colonial authorities in the development of central administration in Ebiraland

 The British colonial authorities played a significant role in the gradual development of central administration in Ebiraland.

62

How did the British colonial authorities unify the various Ebira clans

 The British colonial authorities unified the various Ebira clans under the leadership of Attah Omadivi.

63

Who was Attah Omadivi

 Attah Omadivi was the leader who brought together the various Ebira clans under one leadership in 1902.

64

What was the form of leadership in Ebiraland before the arrival of the British colonial authorities

 Before the arrival of the British colonial authorities, the Ebira people did not have a centralized form of leadership.

65

When did the British colonial authorities arrive in Nigeria

 The British colonial authorities arrived in Nigeria in the 19th century.

66

What was the main aim of the British colonial authorities in Nigeria

 The main aim of the British colonial authorities in Nigeria was to establish a colonial rule and exploit the resources of the region.

67

How did the British colonial authorities affect the social and political structure of Nigeria

 The British colonial authorities brought significant changes to the social and political structure of Nigeria.

68

What were some of the changes brought about by the British colonial authorities in Nigeria

 Some of the changes brought about by the British colonial authorities in Nigeria include the establishment of a centralized administration, the introduction of Western education, and the imposition of Christianity.

69

What was the impact of the British colonial authorities on traditional African cultures

 The impact of the British colonial authorities on traditional African cultures was significant, and it resulted in the erosion of traditional values and beliefs.

70

What is the significance of Attah Omadivi in Ebiraland's history

 Attah Omadivi is significant in Ebiraland's history because he brought together the various Ebira clans and established a centralized form of administration.

71

What were the benefits of a centralized form of administration in Ebiraland

 The benefits of a centralized form of administration in Ebiraland include better governance, improved infrastructure, and enhanced security.

72

How did the Ebira people respond to the imposition of colonial rule

 The Ebira people responded to the imposition of colonial rule in different ways, some resisted, while others collaborated with the colonial authorities.

73

What was the impact of colonialism on the economy of Nigeria

 The impact of colonialism on the economy of Nigeria was significant, as it led to the exploitation of natural resources and the underdevelopment of local industries.

74

What was the impact of colonialism on the political structure of Nigeria

 The impact of colonialism on the political structure of Nigeria was significant, as it led to the creation of artificial boundaries, ethnic tensions, and the establishment of a centralized administration.

75

Where is Ebiraland located

 Ebiraland is located in the central senatorial District of Kogi state in Nigeria, approximately 23 kilometers west of the Niger at Ajaokuta and 32 kilometers southwest of the Niger-Benue confluence.

76

What is the landmass of Ebiraland

 The landmass of Ebiraland is 3,426 km2.

77

What is the highest point in Ebiraland

 The range of hills in Ebiraland occasionally rises to 667 meters above sea level.

78

What is the name of the ethnic group that constitutes Ebiraland

 The ethnic group that constitutes Ebiraland is called the Ebira.

79

When was the 1991 national census conducted in Ebiraland

 The 1991 national census was conducted in Ebiraland in 1991.

80

What was the population of Ebiraland according to the 1991 national census

 The population of Ebiraland according to the 1991 national census was 722,032.

81

When was another national headcount undertaken in Ebiraland

 Another national headcount was undertaken in Ebiraland in 2006.

82

What is the provisional figure of the population of Ebiraland released by the National Population Commission (NPC)

 The provisional figure of the population of Ebiraland released by the National Population Commission (NPC) is 884,396.

83

Is the provisional figure of the population of Ebiraland being disputed

 Yes, the provisional figure of the population of Ebiraland released by the National Population Commission (NPC) is being disputed.

84

How is the population of Ebiraland distributed among the LGAs

 The population of Ebiraland is distributed among the LGAs as follows

85

How have the communities in Ebiraland evolved over time

 The communities in Ebiraland started as tiny villages and have gradually and progressively expanded towards one another, joining together as near towns, with Okene as a city in modern times.

86

What does Ebiraland present as an aerial view

 Ebiraland presents an aerial view of one huge near urban settlement with intervening barriers.

87

What is the significance of the location of Ebiraland

 The location of Ebiraland is significant as it is situated in a strategic position for trade and commerce due to its proximity to the Niger and Niger-Benue confluence.

88

What is the climate like in Ebiraland

 The climate in Ebiraland is tropical, with two distinct seasons – the rainy season and the dry season.

89

What are the major economic activities in Ebiraland

 The major economic activities in Ebiraland include agriculture, trade, and commerce.

90

What crops are commonly grown in Ebiraland

 The crops commonly grown in Ebiraland include yam, cassava, maize, rice, and beans.

91

What are some of the major landmarks in Ebiraland

 Some of the major landmarks in Ebiraland include the Okene Central Mosque, the Palace of the Attah of Ebira, the Adavi-Eba Hill, and the Ohueta Hills.

92

What is the traditional religion of the Ebira people

 The traditional religion of the Ebira people is centered around the worship of various deities and spirits.

93

What is the nature of the Ebira people?

The Ebira people are republican by nature, outspoken and very hardworking.

94

What are the main occupations of the Ebira people?

Farming and cloth-weaving are occupations for which Ebiras are well known.

95

In which Local Government Areas of Kogi state are the Ebira people presently spread?

The Ebira people are presently spread in five Local Government Areas of Kogi state namely: Adavi, Okene, Okehi, Ajaokuta and Ogori-magongo.

96

In which states other than Kogi state are a sizeable number of Ebira people found?

A sizeable number of Ebira people are found in Lokoja Local Government Area, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo states.

97

What is the name of the paramount ruler of the Ebira people?

The paramount ruler of the Ebira people is called Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

98

How was the Pre-Colonial Ebira community organized?

The Pre-Colonial Ebira community was essentially segmentary, consisting of five principal clans among several others, namely, Okengwe, Eika, Okehi, Adavi, and Ihima.

99

What were the respective priests (heads) of the five principal clans in Pre-Colonial Ebira community called?

The respective priests (heads) of the five principal clans in Pre-Colonial Ebira community were known as Ohindase, Adeika, Ohiomahi, Asema and Obonbanyi.

100

How were clan heads selected in Pre-Colonial Ebira community?

The post of the clan head was normally conferred on the oldest living male member of the clan.

101

What were the religious duties and disciplinary powers of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community?

The religious duties and disciplinary powers of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community were limited to his own family.

102

What was the main unit of political organization in Pre-Colonial Ebira community?

The clan was the main unit of political organization in Pre-Colonial Ebira community.

103

What was the political influence of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community?

The political influence of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community was quite small.

104

Who determined the judgement of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community?

The judgement of clan heads in Pre-Colonial Ebira community was determined largely by the consensus of opinion of the elders.

105

Who was responsible for the administration of all the clan heads constituting a community in Ebiraland in Pre-Colonial times?

The administration of all the clan heads constituting a community in Ebiraland in Pre-Colonial times lay in the hands of the elders, influential individuals, and the chief priest (Ohinoyi).

106

What is the economic role of the clan head in Ebiraland?

The clan head held in trust for the clan, part of the income from all the clan lands, such as the produce from palm oil and locust bean trees, during the pre-colonial period.

107

What other economic benefits did the clan head receive during the pre-colonial period?

The leg of whatever game that was killed was given to him, which he shared with the kindred heads.

108

What traditional occupations are Ebiras well known for?

Farming and cloth-weaving.

109

When was an outstation established at Kabba?

In 1895, an outstation was placed at Kabba by the Royal Niger Company.

110

Who built a fort in Kabba?

Captain Turner, an officer attached to the Niger Constabulary, built a fort in Kabba.

111

Who took over the government of Northern Nigeria from the Royal Niger Company?

Frederick Lugard took over the government of Northern Nigeria from the Royal Niger Company on 1st January 1900.

112

Where was the British flag hoisted by Lugard?

The British flag was hoisted at Lokoja by Lugard.

113

Which countries were included in the province formed by Kabba?

Akoko, Kukuruku and Ebira countries were included in the province formed by Kabba.

114

Who was the first Resident of the protectorate of Northern Nigeria?

Sir William Wallace was the first Resident of the protectorate of Northern Nigeria.

115

Who led a small military escort sent into Ebira country in 1902?

Mr. Malcom and Lt. F.F.W. Byng-Hall led a small military escort sent into Ebira country in 1902.

116

How did the Ebira people respond to the demand for the supply of food by the British?

The Ebira people refused to meet with the British demand for the supply of food, seeing this as a direct insult on their persons.

117

What happened to Mr. Malcom and his party when they were outnumbered by the Ebira?

Mr. Malcom and his party, outnumbered, were attacked with arrows by the Ebira and escaped by a night march to Kabba, arriving the next day.

118

What did the British soldiers do in response to the attack on Mr. Malcom and his party?

The British soldiers used the attack on Mr. Malcom and his party as casus belli and marched on the Ebira people with fire arms.

119

What was the result of the British expedition in Ebiraland?

The Ebira people were subjugated and pacified. The resident in Ebiraland described the result of the expedition as follows: “The Ebira were no doubt severely punished during the expedition and I now find them very afraid of the whiteman”.

120

Who led an armed resistance against British rule in Ebiraland?

Agidi, one of the notable personalities among the Ebira, led an armed resistance against British rule in Ebiraland.

121

When did Agidi and his men attack the small British group led by Mr. Malcom?

In 1902, Agidi and his men attacked the small British group led by Mr. Malcom.

122

What was the response of the British to Agidi's attack?

Ebiraland was declared a land of ‘savages’ and Mr. Malcom ordered a detachment of the West African Frontier Force (WAFF) to sit among the Ebira people in order to ‘tame’ them.

123

Who led the punitive expedition in Ebiraland in 1903?

Major Marsh, Lieutenants Sparrenbarg, Moran, Byng-Hall, Gallway, Smith, Oldman and Captain Lewis led the punitive expedition in Ebiraland in 1903.

124

What was the objective of the punitive expedition in Ebiraland?

The objective of the punitive expedition in Ebiraland was to call Agidi to order and to establish permanent peace in Ebiraland.

125

What are the three major cultural festivals celebrated in Ebiraland

 The three major cultural festivals celebrated in Ebiraland are Eche-Ane, Eche Ori, and Ekuechi.

126

What is Eche-Ane and when is it celebrated

 Eche-Ane is an annual masquerade festival celebrated in rotation from one district to the other in Ebiraland between April and June.

127

What was the significance of Eche-Ane in the past

 In the past, Eche-Ane was the only period during which betrothed girls were given away in marriage to their suitors.

128

What is the current state of Eche-Ane

 Eche-Ane has been bastardized and has become a source of constant breach of peace.

129

What message does the text convey to the youth

 The text conveys a message to the youth that a people without a culture is like a people without history, and traditional festivities should be handled with humility and modernity to become a world-class tourism that can improve the economy, employment, and influence of Ebiraland.

130

What is Eche Ori and where is it celebrated

 Eche Ori is a new yam festival celebrated only in two districts of Ebiraland, namely Ihima and Eganyi.

131

What happens during the Eche Ori festival

 During the Eche Ori festival, traditional worshippers make sacrifices in the secret groove of 'Ori' (deity) high up in the mountain to show gratitude for its protection and provision of bounteous harvest. The worshippers also whip one another in turns with long canes without exhibiting any sign of pain.

132

What is the taboo associated with Eche Ori

 It is a taboo to eat or sell new yams in Ihima and Eganyi before the Eche Ori festival.

133

What is Ekuechi and what is its significance

 Ekuechi is a night masquerade festival that marks the end of the Ebira calendar year and the beginning of a new one. All dead relatives are believed to return to earth on a visit this night.

134

Who is the initiator of the Ekuechi festival

 Ododo is popularly acclaimed to be the initiator of the Ekuechi masquerade festival.

135

What is the role of the Akatapa masquerade in the Ekuechi festival

 The Akatapa masquerade heralds the beginning of the Ekuechi festival.

136

Who is restricted from participating in the Ekuechi festival

 The Ekuechi festival is restricted to men and few special women called onoku.

137

What do women do during the Ekuechi festival

 During the Ekuechi festival, women prepare delicious 'Apapa' (bean bread) and he-goat meat for the visiting dead relatives. They also leave monetary gifts with the men for the visiting dead relatives.

138

Where are the Ebira people found

 The Ebira people are mostly found along the River Benue plain down and beyond the River Niger, in Kogi state, and in some parts of Nassarawa, Plateau, and Edo states.

139

What does the word Ebira mean

 The word Ebira means good behavior when translated literally with ethics and hospitality as compliments.

140

What is the traditional process of marriage in Ebira land

 The traditional process of marriage in Ebira land involves the man expressing his intentions to the woman and her parents, and the parents conducting a thorough investigation on the man's family

141

The Ebira people are an ethno-linguistic group located in the Central Senatorial district of Kogi State, Nigeria. They are Nupoid-speaking and known for being outspoken and hardworking.

The Ebira people are an ethno-linguistic group located in the Central Senatorial district of Kogi State, Nigeria. They are Nupoid-speaking and known for being outspoken and hardworking.

142

What is the historical significance of the Ebira people?

What is the historical significance of the Ebira people

143

Recent research shows that the Ebira people have been part of Central Nigeria since 4000 BC. They have existed for a long time in locations within Central Nigeria, not far from where they are located presently.

Recent research shows that the Ebira people have been part of Central Nigeria since 4000 BC. They have existed for a long time in locations within Central Nigeria, not far from where they are located presently.

144

Where are the Ebira people located?

Where are the Ebira people located

145

The Ebira people are located in the Central Senatorial district of Kogi State, Nigeria, not far from the Niger-Benue confluence.

The Ebira people are located in the Central Senatorial district of Kogi State, Nigeria, not far from the Niger-Benue confluence.

146

What are some states where Ebira people are from?

What are some states where Ebira people are from

147

Many Ebira people are from Kogi State, Kwara State, Nasarawa State, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and Edo State.

Many Ebira people are from Kogi State, Kwara State, Nasarawa State, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and Edo State.

148

What are some Ebira groups and where are they located?

What are some Ebira groups and where are they located

149

Some Ebira groups include Ebira Igu in Kogi and Koton Karfi local government areas of Kogi State; Ebira Toto and Umaisha of Nassarawa (Toto) local government area of Nassarawa state; Ebira Mozum of Bassa local government area of Kogi state; and Ebira Etuno of Igarra District of Ako-Edo local government area of Edo state.

Some Ebira groups include Ebira Igu in Kogi and Koton Karfi local government areas of Kogi State; Ebira Toto and Umaisha of Nassarawa (Toto) local government area of Nassarawa state; Ebira Mozum of Bassa local government area of Kogi state; and Ebira Etuno of Igarra District of Ako-Edo local government area of Edo state.

150

What is the physical environment of Ebiraland like?

What is the physical environment of Ebiraland like

151

Ebiraland is characterized by blocks of dissected hills and metaphoric rocks. The hills rise to a peak of 2000 ft, and the undulating plains are studded with smooth rounded rocks of in selbergs. The laterite soils are derived from metaphoric rocks of greyish-buff and clayed pan, which overlay vascular iron stone. The soil depth is variable, ranging from two to three feet to about three inches where the ironstone approaches the surface.

Ebiraland is characterized by blocks of dissected hills and metaphoric rocks. The hills rise to a peak of 2000 ft, and the undulating plains are studded with smooth rounded rocks of in selbergs. The laterite soils are derived from metaphoric rocks of greyish-buff and clayed pan, which overlay vascular iron stone. The soil depth is variable, ranging from two to three feet to about three inches where the ironstone approaches the surface.

152

What are some implications of the physical environment of Ebiraland?

What are some implications of the physical environment of Ebiraland

153

The nature of the topography has affected the relief pattern of Ebiraland, which is marked out of dissected peaks with knife-edged ridges and steep V-shaped valleys. The features have influenced the pattern of the people’s technical know-how as it relates to the production of crafts like pottery, dyeing, and blacksmithing. In contemporary times, these features serve as a reservoir of the iron-ore deposit.

The nature of the topography has affected the relief pattern of Ebiraland, which is marked out of dissected peaks with knife-edged ridges and steep V-shaped valleys. The features have influenced the pattern of the people’s technical know-how as it relates to the production of crafts like pottery, dyeing, and blacksmithing. In contemporary times, these features serve as a reservoir of the iron-ore deposit.

154

What are some traditional occupations of the Ebira people?

What are some traditional occupations of the Ebira people

155

Farming and cloth-weaving are occupations for which the Ebiras are well known.

Farming and cloth-weaving are occupations for which the Ebiras are well known.

156

Who is the paramount ruler of the Ebira people?

Who is the paramount ruler of the Ebira people

157

The paramount ruler of the Ebira people is called Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

The paramount ruler of the Ebira people is called Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

158

Who are some famous Nigerian Nollywood stars from the Ebira tribe?

Who are some famous Nigerian Nollywood stars from the Ebira tribe

159

Mercy Johnson and Halima Abubakar are from the Ebira tribe.

Mercy Johnson and Halima Abubakar are from the Ebira tribe.

160

What does Ebira mean when translated literally

 Ebira means behavior when translated literally with ethics and hospitality as compliments.

161

What are the unique features of Ebira culture

 The unique features of Ebira culture are its ethnic aestheticism which are appreciated most in the event of traditional marriages.

162

What is the nature of Ebira people

 Ebira people are republican by nature, outspoken and very hard working.

163

What are the occupations for which the Ebiras are well known

 Farming and cloth-weaving are the occupations for which the Ebiras are well known.

164

What are the primary crops grown for export in Ebira land

 The primary crops grown for export in Ebira land are yam and cassava.

165

What is the important local commodity used in most meals and in brewing beer in Ebira land

 Guinea corn is the important local commodity used in most meals and in brewing beer in Ebira land.

166

What is the state of fishing in Ebira land

 Fishing is conducted by individual households due to the abundance of rivers and streams on the Niger-Benue plateau. In recent years, larger fish farms have been developed by private and public firms.

167

In which Local Government Areas of Kogi state are the larger fish farms spread

 The larger fish farms are spread in five Local Government Areas of Kogi state namely

168

Where else is a sizeable number of fish farms found apart from Kogi state

 A sizeable number of fish farms is also found in Lokoja Local Government Area and Oyo state.

169

Who is the paramount ruler of the Ebira people

 The paramount ruler of the Ebira people is called Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

170

What do the Ebira cherish

 The Ebira cherish their traditional festivals.

171

How many annual cultural festivals do the Ebira have

 The Ebira have several annual cultural festivals.

172

What are the most prominent cultural festivals of the Ebira people

 The most prominent cultural festivals of the Ebira people are ‘Echane’, ‘Eche Ori’ and ‘Ekuechi’.

173

How do the Ebira treat their dead

 The Ebira pay homage and respect to the dead.

174

What is the relationship between the ritual practices of the Ebira and Jukun

 Many of the ritual practices associated with the Ebira are directly related to those of the Jukun, their distant ancestors.

175

Who usually holds political power in Ebira land

 Political power often rests in the hands of the patriclan in Ebira land.

176

Who usually holds religious power in Ebira land

 Religious power usually is in the hands of the matriclan in Ebira land.

177

What does the arrangement of power between kin in Ebira land allow

 The arrangement of power between kin in Ebira land allows for a balance of power between kin and also allows the kinship relationships to be extended.

178

What are the occupations of Ebira people

 The occupations of Ebira people are farming and cloth weaving.

179

What are the crops grown for export by the Ebira people

 The crops grown for export by the Ebira people are yam and cassava.

180

What is the staple food of the Ebira people

 The staple food of the Ebira people is guinea corn.

181

What is Ebira

Ebira is an ethno-linguistic group in Nigeria.

182

How is Ebira spelled

Ebira is also spelled Igbira or Igbirra.

183

Where are the majority of Anebira from

The majority of Anebira are from Kogi State in Nigeria.

184

In which other Nigerian states can Ebira be found

Ebira can be found in Edo State (Ebira-Etuno), Abaji (Ebira-Koto), and Nasarawa State (Ebira-Toto).

185

Who are the scions of the Igala

The Ebira are the scions of the Igala.

186

Where do the Ebira dwell in Nigeria

The Ebira dwell in Nigeria's Middle Belt region.

187

With which neighboring groups is Ebira history tied

Ebira history is tied to that of their neighbors, the Jukun and the Igala.

188

Where did the Ebira originally come from

According to oral history, the Ebira originally came from the east and entered Nigeria between the Mandarra highlands and Lake Chad sometime during the last millennium.

189

Which group broke away from which in the Ebira and Igala history

It is believed that Igala broke away from Jukun, and Ebira broke away from Igala.

190

Who established the first Ebira chiefdom at Panda

Ohimnagedu established the first Ebira chiefdom at Panda.

191

Who gave Ohimnagedu the royal staff

Atah of Idah, the Igala leader at the time, gave Ohimnagedu the royal staff.

192

Which neighboring group did Ebira maintain ritual connections with

According to the text, Ebira maintained ritual connections with the Jukun.

193

How many smaller groups does Ebira consist of

Ebira consists of two smaller groups: the Northern and the Southern groups.

194

When did the Southern group claim to have broken away from the main group

The Southern group claims to have broken away from the main group around 1850 during the time of the Fulani-led holy wars.

195

How was the governing system of the Northern Ebira

The Northern Ebira traditionally had a highly centralized government that recognized a chief who inherited his power in a patrilineal fashion.

196

Where did the supreme Ebira chief reside

The supreme Ebira chief resided at Panda.

197

How was the governing system of the Southern Ebira

The Southern Ebira group was somewhat less centralized than their northern counterpart. Their governing system acknowledges local leaders for each of five founding families, but does not recognize a supreme chief.

198

Where is Ebiraland located

Ebiraland, the home of Ebira Tao, is located in the central senatorial District of Kogi state.

199

What is the landmass of Ebiraland

The landmass of Ebiraland is 3,426 km2.

200

What was the population of Ebiraland in the 1991 national census

The population of Ebiraland in the 1991 national census was 722,032.

201

Who will find the Ebira language a valuable language to study

Students interested in African Art, African history, anthropology, archaeology, international relations, NGO work, and government work will find the Ebira language a valuable language to study.

202

What is the general greeting in Ebira

The general greeting in Ebira is "Wadahi."

203

Who are the Ebira people

The Ebira people are an ethnic group in Nigeria.

204

Why are they called the Ebira people

They are called the Ebira people because of existing reference to history.

205

What are the two sources of information about the history of the Ebira people

The two sources are oral tradition and written records.

206

Where can the ancestry of the Ebira people be traced to according to oral tradition

According to oral tradition, the ancestry of the Ebira people can be traced to Wukari (present Taraba State).

207

Why did the Ebira people migrate out of Wukari according to oral tradition

They migrated out of Wukari due to chieftaincy tussle.

208

When did the Ebira people migrate out of Wukari according to oral tradition

They migrated out of Wukari along with Idoma and Igala in about 1680 AD.

209

Where did the Ebira people settle after leaving Wukari according to oral tradition

They later split into various groups and settled in different locations between 1680 and 1750 AD.

210

Who was the father of the Ebira Tao, and where did they settle

The father of the Ebira Tao is Itaazi, and they settled in Ebira Opete located around Upake, Ajaokuta.

211

Who are the children of Itaazi and the districts they founded in Ebiraland

The children of Itaazi are Adaviruku/Ohizi (Adavi), Ododo (Okehi), Obaji (Eyika), Uga (Okengwe) and Ochuga/Onotu (Ihima).

212

Who founded the Eganyi district, and what is her name

Itaazi's daughter who was named Ohunene settled in the Eganyi district.

213

What are the five traditional Adavi clans named after the five children of Ohizi

The five traditional Adavi clans are Upopo-uvete (Apasi), Uka, Idu (Aniku), Adeyika and Uhami.

214

What is the name of the migrant group from Eganyi found in Adavi

The migrant group from Eganyi known as Ezi-Onogu clan is also found in Adavi.

215

Who are the ancestors of Okehi clans, and how many children did they have

The ancestors of Okehi clans were Okohi Oviri and Enwgukonyai, and they had two children.

216

Who founded Eika, and how many children did he have

Obaji founded Eika and had ten children named Ohiaga, Iyewe, Avassa, Ehemi, Anchi, Epoto, Egiri, Ubobo, Ogu and Eyire.

217

Who are the present Okovi and Agada group of clans, and who founded them

The present Okovi and Agada group of clans are the children of the two sons of Uga who founded them.

218

What is Ada-ehi, and how did it come about

Ada-ehi is a socio-political coalition formed by a sizeable concentration of other Ebira clans in Okengwe district.

219

What is the largest group of the Ebira people, and where are they located

The largest group of the Ebira people is the Ebira Tao of Kogi state, located at the central senatorial district of Kogi State.

220

What is the Ekuechi festival

 The Ekuechi festival is a traditional celebration that takes place every year in Ebira villages.

221

When does the Ekuechi festival take place

 The Ekuechi festival takes place from late November through the end of December or early January.

222

What is the significance of the Ekuechi festival in Ebira villages

 The Ekuechi festival is the most well-known traditional celebration in Ebira villages and it represents the ancestors’ spirits coming back to the planet.

223

Why does the Ekuechi festival last for a long time

 The Ekuechi festival lasts for a long time because separate clans select their own dates to mark the celebration.

224

What does "Eku" and "Chi" mean in Ebira culture

 In Ebira culture, “Eku” stands for an ancestor’s disguise, while “Chi” denotes descent.

225

How do the Ebira people revere the land of the dead

 The Ebira people revere the land of the dead by believing that individuals from the land of the living are watched over by departed loved ones in the afterlife.

226

What is the meaning of ekuechi in Ebira culture

 In Ebira culture, ekuechi might be understood as the ancestors’ spirits coming back to the planet.

227

What do the masqueraders represent in the Ekuechi festival

 The masqueraders in the Ekuechi festival are said to have access to the afterlife, where departed loved ones watch over the actions of the living.

228

What is the role of the masqueraders during the festival

 The masqueraders in the Ekuechi festival convey encouragement and warnings from the spirit realm throughout the celebration.

229

How do the masqueraders communicate with the spirit realm during the festival

 It is believed that the masqueraders in the Ekuechi festival have access to the afterlife, where departed loved ones watch over the actions of the living.

230

What messages do the masqueraders convey during the festival

 The masqueraders in the Ekuechi festival convey encouragement and warnings from the spirit realm throughout the celebration.

231

What is the significance of the Ekuechi festival for the Ebira people

 The Ekuechi festival is significant for the Ebira people as it represents the ancestors’ spirits coming back to the planet, and it also marks the conclusion of one year and the start of another.

232

What is Eku’rahu’s masked performance in the festival

 Eku’rahu’s masked performance in the Ekuechi festival focuses on singing, drumming, and chanting, and it is one of the festival’s main spectacles.

233

What other traditional celebrations do the Ebira people have

 The Ebira people have other traditional celebrations such as the Ogani festival, Iresu festival, and Ozuri festival.

234

What is the history of the Ekuechi festival

 The history of the Ekuechi festival dates back to the pre-colonial era when the Ebira people used it to commemorate their ancestors.

235

How has the Ekuechi festival evolved over time

 The Ekuechi festival has evolved over time with the incorporation of new cultural practices and the influence of Christianity.

236

What is the dress code for the Ekuechi festival

 The dress code for the Ekuechi festival includes traditional attire such as the agbada for men and the iro and buba for women.

237

What is the traditional food for the Ekuechi festival

 The traditional food for the Ekuechi festival includes local dishes such as pounded yam, eba, and soup.

238

Who was the first Ata of Igala, and who succeeded her

The first Ata of Igala was Ebulejonu, a woman. She was succeeded by her brother Aganapoje, who was the father of Idoko.

239

Who succeeded Aganapoje as Ata of Igala, and what were the names of his two children

Idoko succeeded Aganapoje as Ata of Igala. He had two children named Atiyele and Ayegba om'Idoko.

240

What did Atiyele, the first son of Idoko, do after he migrated eastward from the kingdom

Atiyele migrated eastward of the kingdom to establish Ankpa kingdom (ÈJÈ of Ankpa).

241

Who succeeded Idoko as Ata'IGala of Idah

Ayegba, the second son of Idoko, succeeded his father as Ata'IGala of Idah.

242

What did Ayegba do during his reign as Ata'IGala of Idah

Ayegba led a war against the Jukun, which resulted in victory.

243

Where did the Ebira come from, and what were their major occupations

The Ebira came from the Jukun Kingdom. Their major occupations were as warriors, hunters, iron benders, and farmers.

244

Why did the Atta of Igala invite the Ebira to Idah, and when did they come

The Atta of Igala invited the Ebira to Idah because of constant invasions by the Benin Kings, the Igbos, and other kingdoms around. The Ebira came around 1248-1272 AD.

245

What effect did the migration of the Ebira have on the rise of the Igala Kingdom

The migration of the Ebira disrupted and contributed to the shift of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade from the Bight of Benin to the Bight of Biafra, and it also contributed to the decline of the Benin Empire between the fifteenth centuries. The rise of the Igala Kingdom became a mega state.

246

What was the Idah-Benin war, and why was it fought

The Idah-Benin war (1515-1516) was a war of mutual independence because Igala was not alone in the battle field this time.

247

What led to a land dispute between the Atta of Igala and the Ebira, and what was the outcome

The non-fulfillment of promised by Atta Igala to the Ebira group led to a land dispute between the two groups in Idah. This led to a parting of ways, and the Ebiras moved southwest.

248

When did the Ebira leave Idah, and where did they stop before they separated into various clans

The Ebira left Idah after the Idah-Benin War around 1519-1521, and they stopped at Itobe before they separated into various clans.

249

Which clans make up the Ebira Tao, and who were their progenitors

All members of the various clans in Ebira Tao are descendants of the children of ITAAZI. ITAAZI had five (5) sons named Adaviruku/Ohizi, Ododo, Obaji, Uga, Ochuga/Onotu. Ohizi (Adaviruku) had five children who are progenitors of the five traditional Adavi clans named after them.

250

What is the association between most Ebira Tao clans and the era of hunting

Most Ebira Tao clans are associated with great animals they killed during the era of hunting.


Reference story

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