THE INFLUENCE OF URBANIZATION AND MODERNITY ON NEMBE CULTURE

Abstract

This research work is based on the ancient cultural practices of Nembe people of present day Bayelsa State. This paper is propelled by the need to document and highlight established th behavioural patterns and skills displayed by these people since the 19 century which seem to be going into extinction. The focal point is the effect of rural- urban migration on these traditions in Nembe kingdom. Standard questionnaire and structured interviews are the primary source of data collection. Randomly selected five communities formed the population which include Ogbolomabiri, Bassambiri, Dougo-ama, Odioma, Twon and Okpoama. Opinion polls were verified by prominent chiefs of sixty years and above resident in the sample communities. As expected, the younger generation are oblivious of the existence of these cultural facets and traditions which this research has brought to limelight. Result shows tremendous loss of cultural heritages as a result of interplay of cultures and tradition occasioned by the presence of 'foreign dwellers' and migration to urban cities. A detailed outline or list of the lost traditions, existing ones and modification when this study was carried out under the prism of Occupation; marriage; language; house rule; death/ burial rites and common taboos, were examined with possible recommendations.