Abstract
The Tiv people of central Nigeria possess a rich and distinctive traditional political system that has sustained their governance and social order for centuries. Rooted in a decentralized, acephalous structure, the Tiv political system exemplifies the intricate interplay between governance, kinship, and cultural norms. This study examines the essential elements of Tiv traditional political systems, exploring their historical foundations, organizational frameworks, and roles in maintaining social cohesion and order within the community. The Tiv society operates on the principle of egalitarianism, with governance embedded in a segmentary lineage system. This system, underpinned by kinship ties, emphasizes collective decision-making and conflict resolution through councils of elders, clan heads, and family representatives. At its core, the Tiv political system embodies principles of participatory democracy, with authority distributed horizontally rather than concentrated in hierarchical structures. The relevance of studying the Tiv traditional political systems lies in their resilience and adaptability in the face of external influences, including colonial and post-colonial interventions. These systems provide a framework for understanding indigenous approaches to governance, law, and conflict resolution that are often overlooked in favour of centralized, Western-style governance models. The study highlights how these indigenous systems contribute to social harmony, economic organization, and cultural identity among the Tiv people. By analyzing the Tiv people’s traditional governance mechanisms, this study offers valuable insights into the broader discourse on African political systems and the importance of integrating indigenous governance practices into modern political frameworks. It underscores the need to preserve and adapt these systems to contemporary challenges while respecting their cultural significance. This exploration contributes to a deeper understanding of how traditional political systems can coexist with modern governance structures to enhance political stability and social order.