History - Junior Secondary 2 - Tiv and Idoma

TERM: 1^ST TERM

WEEK: 3 and 4

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC: Tiv and Idoma

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Locate the Tiv and Idoma people on the map
2. ) Discuss the origin of the Tiv and Idoma people
3. ) Describe the socio-political structure of the Tiv and Idoma people
4. ) State the economic activities of the Tiv and Idoma people

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: recommended history textbooks for Junior Secondary School 2

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

WEEK 3

NOTE.

THE TIV PEOPLE

The Tiv people primarily inhabit the central region of Nigeria, particularly in Benue State. Their territory extends into parts of Nassarawa State and Taraba State. The area is characterized by the Benue River, which runs through the region and is significant for the community's agriculture.

Origin of the Tiv People

The origin of the Tiv people is a subject of various historical narratives. They are believed to have migrated from the Middle Belt region of Nigeria, particularly from the area around the Cameroon Mountains, and settled in their current location around the 17th century. The Tiv people have a rich oral history that speaks of their early migrations, cultural practices, and interactions with neighboring ethnic groups. According to their folklore, they descended from a common ancestor named Aondo, who is often associated with the earth and fertility.

Socio-Political Structure of the Tiv People

The socio-political structure of the Tiv people is traditionally organized around a decentralized system of governance. Key features include:

• Council of Elders: The elders play a crucial role in governance and decision-making. They are respected figures in the community who mediate disputes and offer wisdom.
• Chiefdoms: The Tiv society is divided into various chiefdoms, each headed by a chief (known as Ter) who is responsible for the administration and welfare of the people in their domain.
• Clan System: The Tiv people are organized into clans and lineages, which foster a strong sense of identity and community. These clans often have their own local leaders.
• Cultural Practices: Traditional customs and rituals, including the kwagh-hir (puppet theater), reinforce social norms and political authority within the community.

Economic Activities of the Tiv People

The economic activities of the Tiv people are predominantly agrarian and include:

• Agriculture: The Tiv are known for their farming practices, growing crops such as yams, cassava, maize, and rice. They engage in both subsistence and commercial farming.
• Livestock Rearing: Some Tiv households rear livestock, including goats, sheep, and poultry, which contribute to their diet and economic stability.
• Trade: The Tiv participate in local markets, trading agricultural produce and goods with neighboring communities, thus facilitating economic exchanges.
• Craftsmanship: Traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery, also play a role in their economy, showcasing their cultural heritage and providing additional income sources.

EVALUATION:   

1. How do the stories about where the Tiv people came from help them feel united as a community?
2. Why is having many leaders in the Tiv community important for getting everyone's opinions and ideas?
3. How do the traditional customs and practices of the Tiv help them solve problems and settle arguments?
4. Why is farming important for the money and food supply of the Tiv people?
5. How do the ways of organizing and leading the Tiv people compare to other groups in Nigeria, like the Idoma or Yoruba?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 4

NOTE

THE IDOMA PEOPLE

The Idoma people primarily inhabit the central region of Nigeria, mainly in Benue State. Their territory is situated to the southeast of the Tiv people's area and is bordered by the Benue River to the north. The Idoma land includes towns such as Otukpo, Apa, and Obi, and they share borders with other ethnic groups, including the Igede and the Abinsi.

Origin of the Idoma People

The Idoma people are believed to have originated from the Middle Belt region of Nigeria. According to oral traditions, they migrated to their current location from the northern part of the country, around the 15th century. The Idoma have a rich cultural heritage and their history includes interactions with neighboring groups. They consider themselves descendants of the "Idoma" (or "Idoma-Idoma") clan and believe their roots are connected to a common ancestry involving significant historical migrations.

Socio-Political Structure of the Idoma People

The socio-political structure of the Idoma people is characterized by a decentralized governance system:

• Council of Elders: Elders hold significant authority in the community. They are responsible for conflict resolution, advice, and maintaining traditional practices.
• Obi (King): Each Idoma community is often led by an Obi, who serves as the traditional ruler. The Obi is a central figure in cultural ceremonies and governance and works in collaboration with the council of elders.
• Clans and Lineages: The Idoma are organized into various clans and lineages, each with its own leadership structures. These clans contribute to the communal identity and foster unity among members.
• Cultural Traditions: Governance is intertwined with cultural practices and rituals, where traditional festivals and ceremonies reinforce social cohesion and leadership authority.

Economic Activities of the Idoma People

The economic activities of the Idoma people are primarily agrarian, focusing on agriculture and trade:

• Agriculture: The Idoma are known for their farming practices, cultivating crops such as yams, cassava, maize, and vegetables. Agriculture serves as the mainstay of their economy, providing food for families and surplus for trade.
• Fishing: Due to their proximity to the Benue River, fishing is an important economic activity, providing a vital source of protein and income.
• Trade and Commerce: The Idoma people participate in local markets, engaging in trade with neighboring communities. They sell agricultural produce and crafts, facilitating economic exchanges.
• Craftsmanship: Traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and wood carving, are also part of their economic activities, showcasing their cultural heritage and providing additional income.

EVALUATION:   

1. How do the stories about the Idoma people's origins help them connect with their culture and community?
2. Why is it important for the Idoma people to have elders and a king (Obi) to help lead their community?
3. How do the Idoma people's traditional customs and festivals help them solve problems and keep peace among themselves?
4. Why is farming a key part of life for the Idoma people, and how does it help their economy?
5. How do the Idoma people’s way of organizing their community compare to other Nigerian groups, like the Tiv or Yoruba?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively