PRE-COLONIAL TRADITIONAL ADMINISTRATION IN ETCHE OF NIGER DELTA

Abstract

This essay examines pre-colonial traditional administration in Etche of Niger Delta. Prior to the advent of Whiteman, the Etche people, then never existed in a vacuum. Then, the traditional administration was principally overseen by the council of elders. They not only  formulate the laws, customs, regulations, sets forms of behavior which form the moral code and ethics of the land but also seen as the highest decision making body in the land relating to offences such as stealing, murder, violations of taboos of the land and on issues bordering on the socio-cultural life of the people. Though, they do not do this alone but in collaboration with the traditional priest believed to be an epitome of truth and justice and the youths whose role was to enforce the decisions of the elders. The study relied on primary (oral interviews) and secondary sources (published materials). Pre-colonial traditional administration was so significant as it helps to ensure cohesion and peaceful co-existence in the land.