THE IGBO IN MODERN NIGERIA; A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE, 1970-2019

Abstract

The study delves into an examination of patterns and trends in Igbo society in the present day Nigeria, with some historical events as illuminating lamp. Of course, historical events effectively influence the nature of Igbo society in the present times. Such events include the European incursion and concomitant changes in socio-political organisation, nationalist movements, naïve post-independence administration, the Nigeria-Biafra war, attempts at post-war reconstruction, fragmentation of the society, which came in form of state creation and local government reforms among others. There is the need to bring to the fore such knowledge as the lack of it would keep emerging generations bereft of ideas on how to solve similar problems when similar situation presents itself. The foregoing inspired the need for this study. The eclectic method of analysis was employed and the discourse was organised in themes to ensure articulated presentation. It was observed that the Igbo passed through a major phase that has been affecting their status in the affairs of Nigeria. That phase is the Nigeria-Biafra war. However, the war appears to have ignited the self-help attribute of the Igbo as they went on to achieve major feats both as individuals and groups.