Three Nigerian Emirates: A Study in Oral History

Three Nigerian Emirates: A Study in Oral History is a valuable portrait of a region where memory and oral history are the only means of remembering the past, presented by Victor N. Low.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2019
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

Three Nigerian Emirates: A Study in Oral History is a comprehensive exploration into a relatively overlooked region of Nigeria. Victor N. Low offers a rich and detailed account of the leaders, communities, and cultural practices of the Hadejia, Katagum, and Gombe regions, captured through transcribed oral histories. This remarkable work offers a profound portrayal of societies where the tradition of memory and oral history serves as the sole means of preserving and recalling the past.

The Hadejia region, nestled in the heart of Nigeria, boasts a rich tapestry of history and tradition. According to Low's account, the region was home to a diverse population, including the Hausa, Fulani, and Yoruba tribes. The Hadejia people, known for their strong sense of community and oral traditions, played a significant role in shaping the region's history.

One of the notable features of the Hadejia region was its traditional leadership structure. The region was ruled by a hereditary chief, known as the "Emir," who held immense power and influence over the community. The Emir was responsible for maintaining peace, justice, and order within the region and was often consulted for advice and guidance.

The Hadejia people also had a rich cultural heritage that was deeply intertwined with their oral traditions. They were known for their vibrant music, dance, and storytelling traditions, which were passed down from generation to generation through oral communication. These cultural practices not only enriched the lives of the Hadejia people but also played a significant role in promoting unity and understanding among different communities.

The Katagum region, located in the northeastern part of Nigeria, was also home to a unique cultural heritage. The Katagum people, known for their intricate woodcarving and pottery skills, were renowned for their artistic talents. Their sculptures and pottery were highly prized and were often traded across the region.

The Katagum region also had a strong tradition of oral history, which was passed down from generation to generation through storytelling. The stories told by the Katagum people were not only entertaining but also contained valuable lessons and insights into their culture and history. These stories helped to preserve the region's cultural heritage and also served as a means of promoting unity and understanding among different communities.

The Gombe region, located in the central part of Nigeria, was known for its rich agricultural heritage. The Gombe people, known for their hard work and resilience, were skilled farmers and traders. They were also known for their traditional music and dance, which were often performed during festivals and celebrations.

The Gombe region also had a strong tradition of oral history, which was passed down from generation to generation through storytelling. The stories told by the Gombe people were not only entertaining but also contained valuable lessons and insights into their culture and history. These stories helped to preserve the region's cultural heritage and also served as a means of promoting unity and understanding among different communities.

In conclusion, Three Nigerian Emirates: A Study in Oral History provides a valuable insight into the diverse cultural practices and traditions of the Hadejia, Katagum, and Gombe regions of Nigeria. Through the detailed account of the leaders, people, and culture of these regions, Low offers a profound portrayal of societies where the tradition of memory and oral history serves as the sole means of preserving and recalling the past. This work is a testament to the richness and diversity of Nigerian culture and is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the history and heritage of Nigeria.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 154 x 789 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810138520