ABSTRACT

This study derives its motivation from the researcher’s interest in investigating the socio-political organization of Useh Village in Benin Kingdom during the pre-colonial period. The researcher was curious to examine the political mechanism developed by the people to ensure the maintenance of peace and order in the community. From the reign of Oba Eweka I of Benin Kingdom, the community developed a unique system of political governance based on the administration of three hereditary chiefs. This study also investigates the emergence, the social institutions and the judicial administration of the village.

The study adopts the historical approach of research, utilizing data obtained from both primary and secondary sources. The study critically examined these sources and gives due respect to both continuity and change in its examination of the subject of study, the study shows that the community developed an effective system of socio-political organization which ensured the maintenance of peace and security in the village. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page        -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           - ii

Certification                -           -           -           -           -           -           -           - iii

Dedication      -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           - iv

Acknowledgements                -           -           -           -           -           -           - v

Abstract          -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           - vi

Table of Contents                   -           -           -           -           -           -           - vii

CHAPTER ONE:  Introduction     

1.1              Background                -           -           -           -           -           -           -           1

1.2              Research problems -                -           -           -           -           -           -           8

1.3              Aims and objectives    -           -           -           -           -           -           8

1.4              Scope of study            -           -           -           -           -           -           -           9

1.5              Methodology -           -           -           -           -           -           -                       9

1.6              Literature review         -           -           -           -           -           -           -           11

1.7              Chapterization -           -           -           -           -           -           -                       18

CHAPTER TWO:

Early Settlement and the Emergence of Useh Village       -           -           26

CHAPTER THREE:

Useh Community and the Evolution of its Social Institutions       -           34

CHAPTER FOUR:

The Evolution of Political Institutions of Useh Village      -           -           48

CHAPTER FIVE:

The Judicial Administration of Useh          -           -           -           -           -           61

CHAPTER SIX:

Conclusion     -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           75

BIBLIOGRAPHY    -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           78

i.)                  Intelligence Report and Archival Sources

ii.)                Oral Sources

iii.)              Books

iv.)              Journal Articles/Chapters in Books

v.)                Internet Journal Publications

APPENDIX I             -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           86

APPENDIX II            -           -           -           -           -           -           -           -           87