Abstract
Odual and Nembe-Brass are two ethnic groups in the Niger Delta situated within the Eastern Niger Delta and Northern Niger Delta Fringe of Rivers and Bayelsa states. The two groups have had friendly and hostile economic, political and socio-cultural relations since the pre-colonial era. This paper examined the relationship between Odual and Nembe-Brass from 1850-1996 with emphasis on the impact of the “legitimate trade” and the establishment of Oluasiri settlement on both groups. The relationship between Odual and Nembe people has promoted trade, political ties, marriage contracts, religious interactions, educational activities amongst others. To generate data for the study, the researcher employed the use of primary and secondary sources of information. Oral Information and written documents were generated from the field and libraries. The interdisciplinary approach was also employed and knowledge from other disciplines was used to augment the historical data. In the analysis, the qualitative approach was used and all the materials were cross-examined to ensure validity. The findings revealed that Odual and Nembe-Brass have had long years of relations and that the period between 1850 and 1996 was very significant as it promoted trade between the two groups. The study established that the “legitimate trade” and the establishment of Oluasiri settlement promoted economic, political and socio-cultural ties between the two groups. The study further revealed that Oluasiri settlement has over the years served as a major centre of intergroup relations between the groups but not without disputes. The study recommended peaceful co-existence and harmonious relations devoid of dominance and marginalization between the two groups as a panacea for sustainable development and peace.