Nupe Traditions of Origin: A Re-evaluation of the Narratives

Abstract

This article argues for a re-evaluation of the salient themes inherent in the narrations of
the major Nupe traditions of origin, which have remained largely unrevised in the face
of ever-increasing historical and archaeological writings on Nupe history. When reevaluated
within the spheres of current historical epistemologies, this article opines that
these themes hold new answers to some crucial questions hindering the holistic
understanding of pre-colonial Nupe history and worldview. It concludes that until and
unless this revisionist approach is adopted, the study of ancient Nupe history will
continue to remain largely speculative.