A Brief history of Ebira People
The Ebira people are an ethnic group in Nigeria, primarily found in Kogi State, with a few communities in Edo, Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, and Kwara states. The Ebira people have a rich history and culture that spans several centuries.
It is believed that the Ebira people migrated from the Nile Valley region in ancient Egypt to their present-day location in central Nigeria. They were part of the larger Nupe-Kwararafa group, which included the Nupe, Gwari, and other related ethnic groups.
During the 16th century, the Ebira people established the Ebira Tao Kingdom, which was made up of several small communities, with Okene as the capital. The kingdom was ruled by a monarch known as the Ohinoyi, who had a council of chiefs to assist him in governing the kingdom.
The Ebira Tao Kingdom was known for its strategic location, which made it a hub for trade and commerce between the north and south of Nigeria. It was also a center of Islamic learning, with many scholars and students coming to the kingdom to study.
During the colonial era, the Ebira people were part of the Northern Protectorate of Nigeria, which was later merged with the Southern Protectorate to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. The Ebira people played an active role in the struggle for Nigerian independence, with many of their leaders participating in the nationalist movements of the time.
After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the Ebira people continued to make significant contributions to the country’s development. They have produced many notable personalities in various fields, including politics, business, academia, and the arts.
Today, the Ebira people are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes music, dance, and festivals. They are also known for their cuisine, which features dishes such as pounded yam, egusi soup, and akara.
The history of the Ebira people is a testament to their resilience and determination to thrive despite the challenges they have faced over the centuries. They continue to be an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and social fabric, and their contributions to the country’s development are significant and ongoing.
Some popular towns in Ebira Kingdom are; Okene, Ajaokuta, Adavi.
Some prominent ebira people in Yahaya Bello, Natasha Akpoti, Mercy Johnson, Ado Ibrahim.
