Perceived Ecological Relevance of Sacred Groves in Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31150/ajshr.v3i5.1067Keywords:
GrovesAbstract
The study assessed the ecological relevance of sacred groves in Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State, South South, Nigeria. The sacred grove was established on the indigenous knowledge of the people of Omuma and passed down orally from one generation to another. Ecological encroachment and degradation activities posed great challenges to the sustenance of the grove. Data was collected through interview of twenty key informants in the adjoining communities in the grove. Some of the challenges facing the grove include pressure from population explosion and urbanisation process, poaching and deforestation resulting from farming practices going on along the boundary. The sacredness, religious beliefs and taboos play a significant role in promoting sustainable utilization and conservation of flora and fauna of the region. However, with the passage of time, considerable changes have taken place in the extent of the sacred groves, in their vegetation structure, peoples’ perception towards them and the religious beliefs and taboos. Therefore, a holistic understanding of the current status, structure and function of sacred grove is essential for assessing their ecological role and formulating strategies for their conservation.
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