The Best of Esan
Folks
By Williams Patrick Praise
Introduction
Nigeria is a mosaic of cultures, each group carrying traditions, values, and identities that enrich the nation’s diversity. Among these, the Esan people, who occupy a central part of Edo State in South-South Nigeria, stand out for their deep cultural roots, industriousness, and resilience.
Historically, Esanland was made up of several autonomous kingdoms bound by cultural and linguistic similarities. The Esan trace their origins partly to migrations from the great Benin Kingdom and partly to indigenous communities that settled in the region. Over time, they developed a rich heritage characterized by storytelling, farming, masquerades, and a strong sense of community.
The Esan people are more than their history—they are defined by enduring qualities that make them unique in Nigeria and the diaspora. This article highlights the 20 best qualities of Esan folks, drawing from their traditions, daily life, and contributions to society.
1. Hospitality and Warmth
Esan hospitality is legendary. A visitor to an Esan home is rarely left unattended. Traditionally, hosts welcome guests with kola nuts, palm wine, or a hearty meal. The saying, “Ovbokhan khian, obhio khian,” meaning “when a person arrives, he comes with blessings,” captures the Esan belief that guests bring fortune, not inconvenience.
This warmth is not just for family but extends to strangers, fostering friendship and trust across boundaries. In diaspora communities, Esan folks are often at the forefront of cultural associations that create a “home away from home.”
2. Strong Family Bonds
For the Esan, family extends beyond parents and children—it includes uncles, aunts, cousins, and even distant relatives. This extended family system ensures that no one is left behind. Children are often raised by not only their parents but also grandparents, uncles, and neighbours.
A proverb says: “Ovbiekpo khian ovbie,” meaning “one child belongs to all.” This collective upbringing reinforces loyalty, responsibility, and unity. It also ensures that values are passed down seamlessly from generation to generation.
3. Deep Respect for Elders
Elders in Esan society are revered as the living libraries of tradition and history. Younger people kneel, bow, or greet with humility when addressing them. Elders settle disputes, bless marriages, and guide community decisions.
Respect is not just symbolic; it is practical. An Esan child who disrespects an elder is considered to have dishonoured the entire family. This reverence strengthens social order and ensures continuity of wisdom.
4. Rich Oral Tradition
The Esan are natural storytellers. Through folktales, riddles, and proverbs, they pass down lessons about bravery, honesty, and communal living. For instance, the story of the tortoise often teaches lessons on greed and cunning.
Esan proverbs are particularly profound. One popular saying is “Ilu gha to rrie, oghian gba,” meaning “when a proverb is spoken, the wise understand immediately.” Oral tradition not only educates but also entertains, keeping cultural knowledge alive.
5. Resilient Spirit
Esan history is one of resilience. During the reign of Oba Ewuare of Benin, many groups fled persecution and settled in Esanland, forging new communities. Despite wars, colonial disruption, and migration pressures, the Esan have remained united and self-sufficient.
Even today, Esan people show resilience in the face of economic challenges. Many who migrate to Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt or overseas maintain ties to home while thriving in new environments.
6. Agricultural Expertise
Esanland is one of Nigeria’s most fertile regions, and agriculture is central to life. Esan farmers cultivate yam, cassava, maize, pepper, and palm produce, contributing significantly to the state’s food supply.
Beyond farming for subsistence, Esan people also practice cooperative farming, where families help one another during planting and harvest seasons. This teamwork fosters unity and food security.
7. Warrior Heritage
In precolonial times, Esan warriors were highly respected. They defended their lands against external threats and sometimes provided military support to the Benin Kingdom. Their courage was not just about brute force—it symbolized duty, loyalty, and protection of one’s people.
Although wars are no longer fought, this warrior spirit survives in the form of determination, bravery, and the refusal to bow to adversity.
8. Loyalty and Trustworthiness
Trust is a cornerstone of Esan relationships. A man’s word is his bond, and betrayal brings shame not just to the individual but to his entire family. This culture of loyalty extends to friendships, marriages, and business dealings.
For example, Esan marriage traditions emphasize loyalty between husband and wife, with rituals symbolizing eternal trust.
9. Rich Festivals and Cultural Practices
Festivals in Esanland are colourful, spiritual, and entertaining. Among them is the Ukpe Festival, which marks the New Year and is celebrated with feasts, dances, and thanksgiving. The Igbabonelimhin masquerade dance, performed by young men, showcases acrobatics, music, and ancestral reverence.
These festivals unite communities, preserve traditions, and provide opportunities for cultural pride.
10. Industriousness
Esan people are known for their hardworking nature. Historically, they balanced farming with trade. Today, they excel in professions ranging from medicine and law to engineering and business.
Even in diaspora, Esan folks thrive by applying diligence and discipline. Their industriousness is often linked with humility and perseverance, ensuring long-term success.
11. Linguistic Beauty
The Esan language is musical and layered with meaning. Everyday speech is filled with idioms and proverbs. For example, “Obhio gha gbe egbe, egbe gha gbe obhio” means “a neighbor supports a neighbor, and together they survive.”
The language itself reinforces communal living, respect, and wisdom, making communication not just functional but also philosophical.
12. Religious Tolerance
Esanland is a tapestry of beliefs. While traditional religion venerates ancestors and deities, Christianity and Islam coexist peacefully. Families often have members practicing different faiths without conflict.
This tolerance is rooted in respect for choice and the belief that spirituality, regardless of form, connects humans to the divine.
13. Strong Community Life
The Esan thrive on communal living. Villages are organized into quarters, each with leaders who handle issues collectively. Community decisions are made democratically, and neighbours often farm, celebrate, and mourn together.
This sense of togetherness ensures that no one is isolated. In diaspora, Esan associations replicate this system, offering welfare support to members.
14. Integrity and Pride in Identity
Esan people carry their identity with dignity. They proudly introduce themselves as Esan, uphold their traditions, and teach their children about their roots.
Integrity is also a key virtue. Dishonesty is severely condemned, as it brings disgrace not only to an individual but also to their lineage.
15. Education and Intellectual Curiosity
Education has always been a priority for the Esan. Missionaries established schools in Esanland early, and families eagerly embraced learning. Today, Esan people are well-represented in academia, politics, and professions across Nigeria and the world.
The saying, “Ovbiedo gha khian ukhun,” meaning “a child’s success honours the family,” reflects their passion for education as a pathway to excellence.
16. Creativity in Arts and Crafts
Esan creativity shines in dance, music, pottery, and weaving. The Igbabonelimhin masquerade combines artistry with spirituality, while traditional songs are used for storytelling and celebration.
Esan crafts such as mats, carved stools, and clay pots are both functional and aesthetic, reflecting an eye for beauty and skill.
17. Peaceful Nature
Although historically warriors, modern Esan folks are peace-loving. Disputes are often resolved by elders through dialogue and reconciliation. Violence is discouraged, and harmony is highly valued.
This peaceful nature has made Esanland one of the more stable regions in Edo State.
18. Adaptability
Esan people easily adapt to new environments. Whether in Nigerian cities or abroad, they integrate without losing their roots. Many Esan professionals abroad maintain strong cultural ties, attending community meetings and organizing festivals.
Their adaptability reflects balance—the ability to embrace change while preserving identity.
19. Sense of Humour
Esan gatherings are never dull. Folks use jokes, witty sayings, and playful banter to lighten moods. Even in serious discussions, humour is used to diffuse tension.
This sense of humour fosters joy, resilience, and stronger social bonds.
20. Commitment to Tradition and Modernity
The Esan people strike a beautiful balance between tradition and modern life. While they embrace education, technology, and globalization, they continue to perform ancestral rites, respect elders, and celebrate festivals.
This dual commitment ensures cultural continuity in an ever-changing world.
The Esan people are a testament to the richness of Nigerian culture. From their hospitality, resilience, and industriousness to their love for education, creativity, and tradition, they embody qualities that inspire admiration.
In a world where cultural erosion is common, the Esan show that it is possible to hold on to heritage while excelling globally. Their story is not just about the past—it is about a people whose values remain relevant for building unity, progress, and identity today.
