The Isoko ethnic group is one of five in Nigeria’s Delta State, located in the Niger Delta region. The people, language, and territory share the same name. Isoko covers roughly 470 square miles, with a population of about 750,000 (based on the 2001 census) and an additional 500,000 residing in neighboring areas like Ndokwa East, Sagbama, and other states such as Bayelsa, Edo, and Ogun. Significant numbers also live in cities like Ughelli, Warri, Benin City, Lagos, and Ghana.

The origins of the Isoko people are largely drawn from oral history, blending myths and migration stories. It’s generally accepted that four major migratory waves, mostly from the ancient Benin Empire and Eastern Nigeria, led to the settlement of the Isoko region. The earliest migration, around 1600 A.D., brought the Erohwa, Uzere, and Okpe people, followed by the Iyede group half a century later. Further migrations involved settlers from Aviara, Igbide, and other Eastern groups. Internal migrations and splits over time gave rise to various clans, including Irri, Oleh, Emede, and Aviara, with some even founding communities in Urhoboland.

The Isoko people primarily engage in subsistence farming, fishing, and small-scale trade. However, overpopulation, coupled with pollution from decades of oil exploration, has led to severe land and resource degradation. Despite being a significant contributor to Nigeria’s oil wealth, with 130 oil wells in the region (the second in Nigeria was discovered in Uzere in 1958), Isoko remains one of the most underdeveloped areas in the country. Poverty, unemployment, and environmental challenges plague the region.

Yet, the Isoko people remain resilient and vibrant, known for their warmth, industrious spirit, and deep-rooted religious beliefs, always finding reasons to celebrate life despite their challenges.