International records / OpenAlex research

Changing Political Processes among the Abaja Ibo

Opening Paragraph The basic features of the political processes among the Ibo of Eastern Nigeria are well documented. The most striking element of the system is its decentralization. Margery Perham wrote thirty years ago that ‘it is almost impossible to imagine a wider diffusion of authority’ than one finds in Ibo society (Perham, 1937, p. 234). When a decision affecting an Ibo community is to be made, several groups and organizations concern themselves with the issue and within each organization near unanimity must be reached before discussion can be closed. Participation is on such a broad s…