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Article analysis:

The article "A View from the Periphery: A Historical Appraisal on Annang-Igbo Inter-Group Relations in Pre-Colonial Times" by Patrick Okpalaeke provides a historical analysis of the relationship between the Annang and Igbo ethnic groups in pre-colonial Nigeria. The author argues that inter-group relations have been undermined by Eurocentric scholars who held the view that Africans lived in solitude prior to European intrusion into the African continent. The article aims to debunk this view and provide evidence of how pre-colonial societies interacted with one another.

The article is well-researched and provides a detailed account of the various dimensions of Annang-Igbo relations, including commerce and trade, cultural exchanges, migration patterns, conflict and diplomacy, trado-religious activities, among others. The author also highlights how intertwined both ethnic groups have been long before the coming of Europeans. The study concludes that inter-group relations are an age-long phenomenon and still very much in existence.

However, there are some potential biases in the article. Firstly, it is important to note that the author is Nigerian and may have a bias towards portraying Nigerian history positively. Secondly, while the article provides evidence of positive inter-group relations between Annang and Igbo ethnic groups, it does not explore any negative aspects or conflicts that may have existed between them. This one-sided reporting could be seen as promoting a positive image of Nigerian history without acknowledging its complexities.

Additionally, while the article argues that colonial rule contributed to present-day ethnic rivalry in Nigeria, it does not provide sufficient evidence to support this claim. It would have been helpful if the author had explored counterarguments or provided more evidence for this claim.

Furthermore, while the article acknowledges that brief skirmishes occurred between Annang and Igbo ethnic groups in pre-colonial times, it does not provide enough evidence to support its claim that both groups lived in peace and harmony overall. This unsupported claim could be seen as promoting a positive image of Nigerian history without acknowledging its complexities.

In conclusion, "A View from the Periphery: A Historical Appraisal on Annang-Igbo Inter-Group Relations in Pre-Colonial Times" is a well-researched article that provides valuable insights into inter-group relations in pre-colonial Nigeria. However, it is important to acknowledge potential biases and limitations in its reporting of Nigerian history.