ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at Eroke, its people, origins, traditional and political structures and means of livelihood. Eroke is located on the main road between Ankpa and Imane in Olamaboro local government area, approximately 28km from Okpo, its headquarters. The chapter examines the Nigerian context where the people in this study live and work, followed by a summary of the geography, history and traditional government of the village and looks at population and livelihoods, particularly agriculture, field and tree crops. In true Igala tradition, Eroke is governed by two chiefs who are assisted in their administration by seven madakis. The official census of 1963 recorded a population of 2154 for the 'Abo' group, and assuming that Eroke had half of this then the village population was 1077. Diocesan Development Services carefully combines the social dimension with the technical, and participation of intended beneficiaries has been at the heart of all activities.
