SWEM (OATH OF JUSTICE) AMONG THE TIV OF BENUE STATE

Every ethnic group in the world has a unique identity that distinguishes it. For Tiv in Benue state, Swem is a powerful force for social cohesion, reinforcing collective identity and shared values. It also serves as a potent deterrent against antisocial behaviour and a mechanism for enforcing communal norms, thereby maintaining social equilibrium and moral order. This paper seeks to position Swem as a unique cultural heritage of the Tiv and document this practice amidst the complexities of preserving historical narratives in a global landscape. This paper employs a qualitative approach, drawing on data from both primary and secondary sources. The paper finds that Swem, as an oath of justice, was a pivotal traditional institution among the Tiv people, rooted in deep historical and cultural traditions, and transcending ritual, functioning as a sophisticated mechanism for social ordering. In conclusion, Swem stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition in a changing world. The paper, therefore, recommends that, as modern challenges threaten the Tiv nation, it is imperative to reinstate Swem as a pillar of justice to reinforce accountability and communal harmony.