Ethnographic Study of Indigenous Trees, Their Associated Taboos and Implications for Nature and Culture Conservation in Nsukka Culture Area, Nigeria

Covid-19 Lockdown Order by the Federal Government of Nigeria prompted a detailed ethnographic investigation into an aspect of Indigenous value system of Nsukka people. Observation revealed that Nsukka people are among the few groups in Nigeria that have held tenaciously to their indigenous value system. This scenario prompted a study on indigenous trees and their associated taboos in Nsukka culture area, with an extended focus on the implications for nature and culture conservation in the area. Covid-19 Lockdown Order facilitated a detailed ethnographic study in the study area with less obstruction. Key informant interview, focus group discussion and observation were very useful for the study. Five of the numerous indigenous trees were selected for the study. They include Palm tree (Elaeis guineensis), Kola nut (Cola acuminate), Native mango (Irvingia gabonesis), Oil bean (Pentaclethra macrophylla), and African breadfruit (Treculia africana). The study was able to deduce that taboos play significant roles in the preservation of these indigenous trees which has socio-cultural, religious, economic, ritual, and medicinal benefits to the people. And also their preservation has implications for nature and culture conservation in the area.