The ancient Benin Kingdom amazed Europeans with its bronze art and organized government. The Oyo Empire dominated the west with military strength. In the north, the Sokoto Caliphate became one of the largest Islamic empires in Africa. And across the east, communities thrived through trade, farming, and local leadership systems. Nigeria was never an empty land waiting to be discovered. It was already alive, already powerful and thriving. But in the 1800s, everything began to change. Europe was hungry for resources, territory, and control. During the period known as the “Scramble for Africa,” European nations raced to claim African lands. Britain set its eyes on the region that would later become Nigeria. At first, the British came as traders. Palm oil, ivory, and other goods flowed through the ports. But trade slowly turned into influence and influence turned into control. In 1884, European powers met at the Berlin Conference, where Africa was divided among foreign nations without a sin...
Curbing Insecurity In Edo: Why Proper Data on Movement of Newcomers to Communities May Reduce Scourge.
by EBEN ENASCO As insecurity continues to challenge communities across the country, including Edo State, one often-overlooked solution is keeping proper records of newcomers moving into towns and villages. Kidnapping has become a recurring problem in many local communities across the state. Areas such as Akoko Edo, Auchi, Ekpoma, Uhromi, Ovia, Orhionmwon, and Uhunmwonde have reported frequent incidents. Most kidnapping exploits in local communities are often reportedly spearheaded by Fulani extract who have been reported to have occupied various forests armed with sophisticated weapons down southern Nigeria. This development has caused the escalation of mistrusts and a further tension around farming villages who are mostly vunelrable to attacks. The few people living in their communities have either abandoned farming practices, or relocated permanently fearing the worst attacks. Food shortage has ravaged the already downward sliding economy and is clearly reflecting on both low an...