The Migration of the Bini People to Their Present Location and Their Encounter with the Ijaws
By: Prince Agbedeyi O. D
Published on Global Egberi Media International
Introduction
The Bini people, also known as the Edo, are one of the most prominent ethnic groups in southern Nigeria, with a rich history centered around the ancient Benin Kingdom. Their migration to their present location in the Benin region involved traversing numerous rivers and challenging waterways, such as the Ovia River and other tributaries. This report explores how the Bini navigated these obstacles and the significant role played by the Ijaw people in aiding their passage.
The Migration Path of the Bini
Historical and oral traditions suggest that the Bini originated from an area north of their present location, migrating gradually southward into the forest and riverine zones of what is now Edo State. This movement involved crossing a network of rivers and creeks, including the Ovia River, Ikpoba River, and other waterways that intersect the region.
Given the Bini cultural preference and social norms, swimming was neither a common skill nor encouraged, partly due to spiritual beliefs and taboos surrounding water bodies (Omotoso, 1972). Consequently, the Bini needed effective means to cross these rivers safely during their migration.
Encounter with the Ijaw People
As the Bini advanced into the southern Niger Delta region, they came into contact with the Ijaw people, also known as the Izon, who are indigenous to the Niger Delta's riverine and coastal areas.
The Ijaw as Skilled Fishermen and Canoe Builders
The Ijaw have long been known for their exceptional skills in:
- Fishing: Utilizing intimate knowledge of the waterways.
- Canoe carving: Crafting durable dugout canoes suited for navigating creeks, rivers, and estuaries (Alagoa, 2005).
Their expertise made them the natural navigators of the Niger Delta's complex waterways.
Assistance in Ferrying and Crossing Rivers
The Bini, who lacked swimming skills and specialized watercraft, depended significantly on the Ijaw during their migration for:
- Ferrying across major rivers: The Ijaw provided canoe transport, safely conveying Bini migrants across rivers such as the Ovia and other water obstacles.
- Guiding through waterways: Their knowledge of tides, currents, and safe routes was indispensable.
- Cultural exchange: This encounter fostered interactions that included trade, alliances, and mutual respect for the spiritual significance of water bodies (Aig Imuokhuede, 1995).
Cultural and Spiritual Context
Both the Bini and the Ijaw held spiritual reverence for rivers and waterways. The Bini worshipped river deities like the goddess Ovia, and crossing rivers often involved rituals to appease these spirits (Ekeh, 1975). The Ijaw similarly maintained rich spiritual traditions connected to water, which harmonized well with the Bini’s customs and facilitated peaceful cooperation.
Conclusion
The migration of the Bini people to their present homeland was a complex process that required crossing significant rivers and navigating difficult terrain. Their encounter with the Ijaw people, skilled fishermen and canoe carvers, was a crucial factor in their successful migration. The Ijaw facilitated the safe ferrying of Bini migrants across rivers, enabling the Bini to establish their kingdom in the Edo region.
This collaboration between the Bini and Ijaw highlights the interconnectedness of ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, and the essential role of cultural and technological exchange in historical migrations.
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