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ABSTRACT
From the above it is clear that Women in pre-colonial Esan contributed immensely to the entire society just like their male counterpart. They were involved in every facet starting from their social activities which comes naturally, to participating in associations that formed pressure groups to be heard. In agriculture they also cultivated a variety of crops in addition to assisting their husbands. They engaged in local trade within the kingdom. They were also actively involved in craft and processing industries. The women used the funds realized from their numerous activities to enhance their status as well as the welfare of their family and the society at large. Over the past centuries, women have contributed immensely to the socio economic and political development of their societies. Their role has however not been given a 55 proper place in the academic discourse. This chapter makes a concerted attempt to highlight the place of women in pre-colonial Esan land. It is therefore, unbelievable when women are just mentioned or pushed to the background as if they were not a part of the development of the societies they live in. looking at things from a more realistic view, women in the pre-colonial Esan excelled as role models, traders, caretakers, goddesses, farmers and producers. These attributes I must say is not in anyway, close to the usual description we get when asked about their status or what is written about them. This research chapter has been able to prove that Esan women in pre-colonial time despite the tradition and customs that tried to limit their activities and status were still able to excel in almost every aspect that makes a society. It is my hope, that highlighting of these contributions made by women to the socio-political and economic facet of Esan land during pre colonial times, will pave way for a better appreciation of the place of women in the society by the present and future generations to come.
