SOCIO-POLITICAL ORGANISATION OF USEH AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE IN THE CORONATION OF THE MONARCH IN BENIN

11 PAGES (4382 WORDS) History Article/Essay

This study examines the socio-political organization of Useh village in Benin kingdom during the pre-colonial period. It aims essentially at investigating the political institution developed by the people of the community before the advent of colonialism in 1897. The study examines the effectiveness of the indigenous political system in promoting peace and progress. In addition, the study attempts to situate the history of Useh within the context of Benin history and examines the special role played by the community during the coronation ceremony of the Benin monarch especially in the traditional naming of an Oba as well as other rituals performed in the community. The study contends that the institution of hereditary chiefs in the different quarters of the village ensured the effective administration of the community. The study brings to the fore the organization capabilities and propensities of the people to administer themselves which ensured the maintenance of peace and security in the community.