ekeoba M isikhuemen - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by ekeoba M isikhuemen

Research paper thumbnail of Degraded Forests in Protected Landscapes: Prospects of Biodiversity Rehabilitation in Urhonigbe Forest Reserve, Edo …

IUFRO World Series Vol. 23, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Chainsaw milling in the Congo Basin

Forest management in the Congo basin 1 takes place in a context of widespread poverty. it is esti... more Forest management in the Congo basin 1 takes place in a context of widespread poverty. it is estimated that over 73% of people in the region live below the poverty line, most of them in rural areas where forest predominates (de wasseige et al. 2009). over the last two decades, forest policies have been used as a powerful lever to reduce poverty among the population, while also contributing to the development of the economy and the management of biodiversity.

Research paper thumbnail of Host specificity and phytochemical constituents of mistletoe and twigs of parasitized plants: Implications for blanket application of mistletoe as cure-all medicine

Journal of medicinal herbs and ethnomedicine, Mar 15, 2020

A study on host specificity and phytochemical constituents of leaves of mistletoe and parasitized... more A study on host specificity and phytochemical constituents of leaves of mistletoe and parasitized twigs of seven host trees/shrubs was conducted in University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. Plant height and location were measured with Nikon Laser Rangefinder (Forestry 550) and GPS respectively while occurrence and count of mistletoe on host plants was largely anecdotal/visual. Phytochemical analyses were conducted at

Research paper thumbnail of Degraded forests in protected landscapes: prospects for biodiversity rehabilitation in Urhonigbe Forest Reserve, Edo State, Nigeria

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Phytochemical and Mineral Constituents of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn. and Piper Umbellatum Linn: Implications for Ethnomedicine

European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2020

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to hu... more Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn. Methods: Two phased investigations – ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum – were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants’ interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, ...

Research paper thumbnail of 4.10 Chainsaw Milling and Rainforest Dynamics in Southern

The nigerian rainforest is located between latitude 4 0 and 9 0 n (Figure 1). it stretches east-w... more The nigerian rainforest is located between latitude 4 0 and 9 0 n (Figure 1). it stretches east-west across the country, extending about 250 km inland from the coast (ojo and ola-adams 1996). The biome is a continuation of the western block of the african rainforest formation. 1 redhead (1971) arranged nigerian rainforest trees into three utilization classes: Class i includes species of major economic timber importance (e.g., Milicia and Baillonella); Class ii includes species of lesser timber importance (e.g., Lophira and Mitragyna); Class iii includes species of possible timber importance (e.g., Alstonia and Celtis); and Class iV includes species likely to be of use only for fuel, charcoal or industrial use. The population of southern nigeria is almost 65 million on a total land area of 20 million hectares (npC 2006). The south, where the rainforest is found, is the most densely populated part of the country, with an average population density of 324 persons/km 2 (the national average is 150 people/km 2). ekeoba matthew Isikhuemen is a consultant and conservation ecologist working for Edo Environmental Consultants and laboratory, benin City, nigeria.

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic assessment of mammals in conservation areas of presco concession, Plogbo, Edo state, Nigeria

Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, May 10, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Disappearance of African Elephant from Kainji Lake National Park Nigeria Causes Status and Prospects for Reintegration

Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, Aug 6, 2020

The low student mathematics learning outcomes are influenced by many factors. Parental attention,... more The low student mathematics learning outcomes are influenced by many factors. Parental attention, social environment, and learning independence are some of the factors that are thought to influence student learning outcomes in mathematics. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of finding out whether there was a positive and significant relationship between parents' attention, social environment and learning independence with mathematics learning outcomes for students of class VIII odd semester of SMP Muhammadiyah 9 Yogyakarta 2016/2017 school year. The population in this study were all eighth-grade students of Muhammadiyah 9 Yogyakarta Middle School 2016/2017 academic year consisting of 5 classes with a total of 182 students. As the sample class VIII D consisting of 36 students using random sampling techniques to the class. The data collection technique was carried out using a questionnaire method for parents' attention, social environment and learning independence. As for the test method for student mathematics learning outcomes. The instrument test uses validity and reliability tests. The analysis prerequisite test uses a normality test, independent test, and linearity test. Analysis of hypothesis testing data uses simple linear regression analysis and multiple regression and correlation analysis. The results showed that there is a positive and significant correlation among parents' attention, social environment and learning independence with mathematics learning outcomes with Fcount = 9,70 > Ftable = 2,90 multiple correlation coefficient (R) is 0,69 and the multiple determination coefficient (R 2) is 0,48. While the multiple regression equation is ̂= −95,97 + 0,83 1 + 0,41 2 + 0,68 3 , relatively contribution (X1) = 62,34%, the relative contribution (X2) = 19,18%, the relative contribution (X3) = 18,48% and effective contribution (X1) = 29,68%, the effective contribution (X2) = 9,13%, and the effective contribution (X3) = 8,80%.

Research paper thumbnail of Tree population dynamics and regeneration of a logged-over secondary regrowth forest

Study on tree residuals, recruitment, natural regeneration, enrichment planting, soil and impact ... more Study on tree residuals, recruitment, natural regeneration, enrichment planting, soil and impact was conducted in Permanent Sample Plot (PSP) 82. The experimental plot, is located on Lat., 6° 01'N and Long. 6° 101 E was established in 1954 by Forestry h Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) to study the ecology of the lowland rainforest of southern Benin over an unspecific period of time. The PSP is a square (121m by 121m) of area 1.47ha. A 100% inventory of all residual trees / shrubs > 15cm including recruitment was conducted and the girth of all individuals measured at breast height level (1.3m). Diagnostic assessment was carried out in a 6m x 6m portion located within each of the 16 sub-plot using ca.4% sampling intensity. The seedlings of Khaya grandifoliola, Khaya ivorensis, Khaya senegalensis and Nauclea diderrichii, were raised in a nursery. Measurement of variables, which consist of number of leaves, number of nodes, number of branches and height commenced six months after pla...

Research paper thumbnail of Okomu plateau forest and associated wetlands in southern Nigeria: status, threats and significance

International Journal of Hydrology

Research paper thumbnail of DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT OF MAMMALS IN CONSERVATION AREAS OF PRESCO CONCESSION, OLOGBO, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

A two-phase assessment of mammalian richness and diversity was conducted in the 4,600 ha Conserva... more A two-phase assessment of mammalian richness and diversity was conducted in the 4,600 ha Conservation Areas in Presco concession, Ologbo, Edo State, Nigeria. Using both direct and indirect techniques, 20 line/point transects (ca. 2% sampling intensity) and 24 (ca. 2.5% sampling intensity) were assessed in September, 2016 (wet season) and March, 2017 (dry season). The Bushnell binoculars was used to identify distant/fleeing animals while Nikon Laser Rangefinder (Forestry 500) was used to determine vegetation height. Assessment of floristics was largely anecdotal. Data were subjected to Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices, and descriptive statistics. Wet season entry revealed seven families, 12 species and 118 individuals while Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices were 2.27 and 2.10 respectively. The dry season entry revealed eight families, 14 species and 123 individuals while Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices were 2.46 and 2.27 respectively. The Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) had the most abundant population in both wet and dry seasons. The 'White throated monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster)' was the only vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List (2019-3) recorded; however, based on National Biodiversity Approach (NBSAP), five wildlife species were endangered. Among flora, 66 tree/shrub/liane species spread across 25 families were encountered in the eco-zones. Despite the palpable drawbacks occasioned by illegal logging, poaching, unauthorized grazing/wildfires and resultant loss of species and ecosystems, the conservation areas have very rich potentials for transformation into wildlife sanctuary/rescue centre and repository for phyto-demographic and socio-cultural studies. For the CAs/buffer zones to be left undisturbed, alternative livelihood projects should be established for enclave/fringing communities and all forms of logging and poaching activities prohibited.

Research paper thumbnail of Tree population dynamics and regeneration of a logged-over secondary regrowth forest

Research paper thumbnail of Rainforest degradation in southern Nigeria: role of forestry institutions

The exclusionary 'top-down' and management models that were introduced by the colonial administra... more The exclusionary 'top-down' and management models that were introduced by the colonial administration in the governance of Nigeria's rainforest over a century ago have endured till present day in the federal and state forestry services. From the establishment of the Nigerian Forestry Department (FD) towards the end of the 20 th century, the post-independence era through to contemporary times; the exploitation of Nigeria's most diverse forest under the guise of sustainable forest management went through a range of management regimes. Timber Rules, Proclamations and Ordinances are all based on the colonial models. For over a century, the country's forest policies and institutional frameworks have been designed towards boosting revenues or economic fortunes of the state. Sadly, all forestry policies enunciated in the past, and indeed up to contemporary times, were subsumed within the bureaucratic civil service system that relies basically on 'fences and fines approach'. Also, is the belligerent and divisive land tenure and land use systems, that were heaved upon the people through Ordinances during the colonial era and also by the 1978 Land Use Act. These policies did not only nationalised all lands in Nigeria authoritatively, but also made excruciating impacts on both the rainforest and the people whose livelihoods are dependent on it. Over time, the rainforest ecosystem has been progressively turned into mere vestigestriggering irreversible damage to species and ecosystems; and weakening the livelihood systems of forestdependent populations. While it is imperative to replace the obsolete policies and incongruent institutional frameworks at all levels of government with good participatory governance, intensified efforts should be made towards confronting direct drivers of rainforest degradation (e.g. surge in human population) and other cross-cutting elements in the rainforest degradation equation.

Research paper thumbnail of Reviewers: (1) Sanjib Saha, The University of Iowa, USA. (2) Sowjanya Pulipati, Vignan Pharmacy College, India. (3) J. Suresh, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research

European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2020

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to hu... more Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn. Methods: Two phased investigations-ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum-were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants' interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense Original Research Article Isikhuemen et al.; EJMP, 31(1): 84-97, 2020; Article no.EJMP.54232 85 and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Zn). Results: Market survey revealed that vendor/end users (85%) were well-informed on the uses of the plants for food (spices, condiments) and ethnomedicine. Most respondents (80%) affirmed that the leaves were frequently used for flavouring; and for preparing traditional medicinal soups when combined with assorted vegetables. Respondents (80%) averred that the leaf was the most frequently used followed by stems (10.9%), roots (5.5%) and seeds (3.6%). P. guineense was considered best for stomach disorder/ulcer, respiratory/urinary tract infections; P. umbellatum most preferred for arthritis, fever and fertility/womb cleansing. Phytochemical analysis revealed P. umbellatum stem had more alkaloids, flavonoids and phenol; and anthraquinone in the leaf while P. guineense stem had more saponins and tannins. However, mineral analyses revealed more Ca and Mg in P. guineense leaf; and K, Na, Zn and P in P. umbellatum stem while Fe was higher in the leaf. Conclusion: P. guineense and P. umbellatum are aromatic liane and shrub used for flavouring and spicing of food, and medicine. These fairly ubiquitous and underutilized plants can contribute significantly to food and health needs of forest dependent people in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa. The study has revealed that these aromatic plants are rich sources of phytomedicines and important minerals. Further investigation on the phytochemical/pharmacological potentials and ecological idiosyncrasies of these underutilized aromatic rainforest liane and shrub is recommended.

Research paper thumbnail of DISAPPEARANCE OF AFRICAN ELEPHANT FROM KAINJI LAKE NATIONAL PARK, NIGERIA: CAUSES, STATUS AND PROSPECTS FOR REINTEGRATION

Isikhuemen E. M. and Aigbobo E. N, 2020

This paper examines the causes of disappearance/loss and current status of the African elephant i... more This paper examines the causes of disappearance/loss and current status of the African elephant in KLNP against the backdrop of international/regional agreements, conventions, national/sub-national institutions (including forestry/wildlife laws); and presents propositions. Data were collected from official reports, Nigeria Parks Magazine and published literature. Results revealed overwhelming anthropogenic disturbance (e.g. built infrastructure, namely Air Force terminal, dam), weak legislation, obsolete equipment and poor enforcement, illegal logging, poaching, cattle herding/banditry and perverse transnational diplomacy, as probable reasons for the loss/exodus of African elephant from the park. There was no substantial empirical evidence to tie elephant loss/disappearance to human-wildlife conflicts or ivory trade. However, the literature is rife with information that while Beninoire communities on the corridor are incentivized to protect wildlife, particularly the African elephant, their Nigerian counterparts with vast indigenous knowledge of behavioural/habituation and migratory pattern, are invariably alienated. The Nigerian government should define responsibilities and harmonize roles for departments and agencies; expedite/orchestrate national forest/wildlife laws; and foster multilateral cooperation towards rehabilitation/protection of wildlife species that utilize trans-national migratory corridors.

Research paper thumbnail of Degraded Forests in Protected Landscapes: Prospects of Biodiversity Rehabilitation in Urhonigbe Forest Reserve, Edo …

IUFRO World Series Vol. 23, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Chainsaw milling in the Congo Basin

Forest management in the Congo basin 1 takes place in a context of widespread poverty. it is esti... more Forest management in the Congo basin 1 takes place in a context of widespread poverty. it is estimated that over 73% of people in the region live below the poverty line, most of them in rural areas where forest predominates (de wasseige et al. 2009). over the last two decades, forest policies have been used as a powerful lever to reduce poverty among the population, while also contributing to the development of the economy and the management of biodiversity.

Research paper thumbnail of Host specificity and phytochemical constituents of mistletoe and twigs of parasitized plants: Implications for blanket application of mistletoe as cure-all medicine

Journal of medicinal herbs and ethnomedicine, Mar 15, 2020

A study on host specificity and phytochemical constituents of leaves of mistletoe and parasitized... more A study on host specificity and phytochemical constituents of leaves of mistletoe and parasitized twigs of seven host trees/shrubs was conducted in University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. Plant height and location were measured with Nikon Laser Rangefinder (Forestry 550) and GPS respectively while occurrence and count of mistletoe on host plants was largely anecdotal/visual. Phytochemical analyses were conducted at

Research paper thumbnail of Degraded forests in protected landscapes: prospects for biodiversity rehabilitation in Urhonigbe Forest Reserve, Edo State, Nigeria

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Phytochemical and Mineral Constituents of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn. and Piper Umbellatum Linn: Implications for Ethnomedicine

European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2020

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to hu... more Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn. Methods: Two phased investigations – ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum – were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants’ interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, ...

Research paper thumbnail of 4.10 Chainsaw Milling and Rainforest Dynamics in Southern

The nigerian rainforest is located between latitude 4 0 and 9 0 n (Figure 1). it stretches east-w... more The nigerian rainforest is located between latitude 4 0 and 9 0 n (Figure 1). it stretches east-west across the country, extending about 250 km inland from the coast (ojo and ola-adams 1996). The biome is a continuation of the western block of the african rainforest formation. 1 redhead (1971) arranged nigerian rainforest trees into three utilization classes: Class i includes species of major economic timber importance (e.g., Milicia and Baillonella); Class ii includes species of lesser timber importance (e.g., Lophira and Mitragyna); Class iii includes species of possible timber importance (e.g., Alstonia and Celtis); and Class iV includes species likely to be of use only for fuel, charcoal or industrial use. The population of southern nigeria is almost 65 million on a total land area of 20 million hectares (npC 2006). The south, where the rainforest is found, is the most densely populated part of the country, with an average population density of 324 persons/km 2 (the national average is 150 people/km 2). ekeoba matthew Isikhuemen is a consultant and conservation ecologist working for Edo Environmental Consultants and laboratory, benin City, nigeria.

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic assessment of mammals in conservation areas of presco concession, Plogbo, Edo state, Nigeria

Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, May 10, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Disappearance of African Elephant from Kainji Lake National Park Nigeria Causes Status and Prospects for Reintegration

Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, Aug 6, 2020

The low student mathematics learning outcomes are influenced by many factors. Parental attention,... more The low student mathematics learning outcomes are influenced by many factors. Parental attention, social environment, and learning independence are some of the factors that are thought to influence student learning outcomes in mathematics. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of finding out whether there was a positive and significant relationship between parents' attention, social environment and learning independence with mathematics learning outcomes for students of class VIII odd semester of SMP Muhammadiyah 9 Yogyakarta 2016/2017 school year. The population in this study were all eighth-grade students of Muhammadiyah 9 Yogyakarta Middle School 2016/2017 academic year consisting of 5 classes with a total of 182 students. As the sample class VIII D consisting of 36 students using random sampling techniques to the class. The data collection technique was carried out using a questionnaire method for parents' attention, social environment and learning independence. As for the test method for student mathematics learning outcomes. The instrument test uses validity and reliability tests. The analysis prerequisite test uses a normality test, independent test, and linearity test. Analysis of hypothesis testing data uses simple linear regression analysis and multiple regression and correlation analysis. The results showed that there is a positive and significant correlation among parents' attention, social environment and learning independence with mathematics learning outcomes with Fcount = 9,70 > Ftable = 2,90 multiple correlation coefficient (R) is 0,69 and the multiple determination coefficient (R 2) is 0,48. While the multiple regression equation is ̂= −95,97 + 0,83 1 + 0,41 2 + 0,68 3 , relatively contribution (X1) = 62,34%, the relative contribution (X2) = 19,18%, the relative contribution (X3) = 18,48% and effective contribution (X1) = 29,68%, the effective contribution (X2) = 9,13%, and the effective contribution (X3) = 8,80%.

Research paper thumbnail of Tree population dynamics and regeneration of a logged-over secondary regrowth forest

Study on tree residuals, recruitment, natural regeneration, enrichment planting, soil and impact ... more Study on tree residuals, recruitment, natural regeneration, enrichment planting, soil and impact was conducted in Permanent Sample Plot (PSP) 82. The experimental plot, is located on Lat., 6° 01'N and Long. 6° 101 E was established in 1954 by Forestry h Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) to study the ecology of the lowland rainforest of southern Benin over an unspecific period of time. The PSP is a square (121m by 121m) of area 1.47ha. A 100% inventory of all residual trees / shrubs > 15cm including recruitment was conducted and the girth of all individuals measured at breast height level (1.3m). Diagnostic assessment was carried out in a 6m x 6m portion located within each of the 16 sub-plot using ca.4% sampling intensity. The seedlings of Khaya grandifoliola, Khaya ivorensis, Khaya senegalensis and Nauclea diderrichii, were raised in a nursery. Measurement of variables, which consist of number of leaves, number of nodes, number of branches and height commenced six months after pla...

Research paper thumbnail of Okomu plateau forest and associated wetlands in southern Nigeria: status, threats and significance

International Journal of Hydrology

Research paper thumbnail of DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT OF MAMMALS IN CONSERVATION AREAS OF PRESCO CONCESSION, OLOGBO, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

A two-phase assessment of mammalian richness and diversity was conducted in the 4,600 ha Conserva... more A two-phase assessment of mammalian richness and diversity was conducted in the 4,600 ha Conservation Areas in Presco concession, Ologbo, Edo State, Nigeria. Using both direct and indirect techniques, 20 line/point transects (ca. 2% sampling intensity) and 24 (ca. 2.5% sampling intensity) were assessed in September, 2016 (wet season) and March, 2017 (dry season). The Bushnell binoculars was used to identify distant/fleeing animals while Nikon Laser Rangefinder (Forestry 500) was used to determine vegetation height. Assessment of floristics was largely anecdotal. Data were subjected to Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices, and descriptive statistics. Wet season entry revealed seven families, 12 species and 118 individuals while Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices were 2.27 and 2.10 respectively. The dry season entry revealed eight families, 14 species and 123 individuals while Shannon-Weiner and Brillouin diversity indices were 2.46 and 2.27 respectively. The Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) had the most abundant population in both wet and dry seasons. The 'White throated monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster)' was the only vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List (2019-3) recorded; however, based on National Biodiversity Approach (NBSAP), five wildlife species were endangered. Among flora, 66 tree/shrub/liane species spread across 25 families were encountered in the eco-zones. Despite the palpable drawbacks occasioned by illegal logging, poaching, unauthorized grazing/wildfires and resultant loss of species and ecosystems, the conservation areas have very rich potentials for transformation into wildlife sanctuary/rescue centre and repository for phyto-demographic and socio-cultural studies. For the CAs/buffer zones to be left undisturbed, alternative livelihood projects should be established for enclave/fringing communities and all forms of logging and poaching activities prohibited.

Research paper thumbnail of Tree population dynamics and regeneration of a logged-over secondary regrowth forest

Research paper thumbnail of Rainforest degradation in southern Nigeria: role of forestry institutions

The exclusionary 'top-down' and management models that were introduced by the colonial administra... more The exclusionary 'top-down' and management models that were introduced by the colonial administration in the governance of Nigeria's rainforest over a century ago have endured till present day in the federal and state forestry services. From the establishment of the Nigerian Forestry Department (FD) towards the end of the 20 th century, the post-independence era through to contemporary times; the exploitation of Nigeria's most diverse forest under the guise of sustainable forest management went through a range of management regimes. Timber Rules, Proclamations and Ordinances are all based on the colonial models. For over a century, the country's forest policies and institutional frameworks have been designed towards boosting revenues or economic fortunes of the state. Sadly, all forestry policies enunciated in the past, and indeed up to contemporary times, were subsumed within the bureaucratic civil service system that relies basically on 'fences and fines approach'. Also, is the belligerent and divisive land tenure and land use systems, that were heaved upon the people through Ordinances during the colonial era and also by the 1978 Land Use Act. These policies did not only nationalised all lands in Nigeria authoritatively, but also made excruciating impacts on both the rainforest and the people whose livelihoods are dependent on it. Over time, the rainforest ecosystem has been progressively turned into mere vestigestriggering irreversible damage to species and ecosystems; and weakening the livelihood systems of forestdependent populations. While it is imperative to replace the obsolete policies and incongruent institutional frameworks at all levels of government with good participatory governance, intensified efforts should be made towards confronting direct drivers of rainforest degradation (e.g. surge in human population) and other cross-cutting elements in the rainforest degradation equation.

Research paper thumbnail of Reviewers: (1) Sanjib Saha, The University of Iowa, USA. (2) Sowjanya Pulipati, Vignan Pharmacy College, India. (3) J. Suresh, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research

European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2020

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to hu... more Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn. Methods: Two phased investigations-ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum-were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants' interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense Original Research Article Isikhuemen et al.; EJMP, 31(1): 84-97, 2020; Article no.EJMP.54232 85 and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Zn). Results: Market survey revealed that vendor/end users (85%) were well-informed on the uses of the plants for food (spices, condiments) and ethnomedicine. Most respondents (80%) affirmed that the leaves were frequently used for flavouring; and for preparing traditional medicinal soups when combined with assorted vegetables. Respondents (80%) averred that the leaf was the most frequently used followed by stems (10.9%), roots (5.5%) and seeds (3.6%). P. guineense was considered best for stomach disorder/ulcer, respiratory/urinary tract infections; P. umbellatum most preferred for arthritis, fever and fertility/womb cleansing. Phytochemical analysis revealed P. umbellatum stem had more alkaloids, flavonoids and phenol; and anthraquinone in the leaf while P. guineense stem had more saponins and tannins. However, mineral analyses revealed more Ca and Mg in P. guineense leaf; and K, Na, Zn and P in P. umbellatum stem while Fe was higher in the leaf. Conclusion: P. guineense and P. umbellatum are aromatic liane and shrub used for flavouring and spicing of food, and medicine. These fairly ubiquitous and underutilized plants can contribute significantly to food and health needs of forest dependent people in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa. The study has revealed that these aromatic plants are rich sources of phytomedicines and important minerals. Further investigation on the phytochemical/pharmacological potentials and ecological idiosyncrasies of these underutilized aromatic rainforest liane and shrub is recommended.

Research paper thumbnail of DISAPPEARANCE OF AFRICAN ELEPHANT FROM KAINJI LAKE NATIONAL PARK, NIGERIA: CAUSES, STATUS AND PROSPECTS FOR REINTEGRATION

Isikhuemen E. M. and Aigbobo E. N, 2020

This paper examines the causes of disappearance/loss and current status of the African elephant i... more This paper examines the causes of disappearance/loss and current status of the African elephant in KLNP against the backdrop of international/regional agreements, conventions, national/sub-national institutions (including forestry/wildlife laws); and presents propositions. Data were collected from official reports, Nigeria Parks Magazine and published literature. Results revealed overwhelming anthropogenic disturbance (e.g. built infrastructure, namely Air Force terminal, dam), weak legislation, obsolete equipment and poor enforcement, illegal logging, poaching, cattle herding/banditry and perverse transnational diplomacy, as probable reasons for the loss/exodus of African elephant from the park. There was no substantial empirical evidence to tie elephant loss/disappearance to human-wildlife conflicts or ivory trade. However, the literature is rife with information that while Beninoire communities on the corridor are incentivized to protect wildlife, particularly the African elephant, their Nigerian counterparts with vast indigenous knowledge of behavioural/habituation and migratory pattern, are invariably alienated. The Nigerian government should define responsibilities and harmonize roles for departments and agencies; expedite/orchestrate national forest/wildlife laws; and foster multilateral cooperation towards rehabilitation/protection of wildlife species that utilize trans-national migratory corridors.