DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2019.v07i11.009

Pages: 435-438

Background: This study was aimed at comparing the Paul’s Index across the Ikwerre, Bini and Igbo ethnic groups of Southern Nigeria. The study was an observational, analytical and cross-sectional design with volunteers’ age ranging from 18-60 years. For the purpose of this study, an individual was considered to be a Nigerian of a particular ethnic group if the parents and four grandparents were of the same ethnic group. Materials and Methods: Cluster sampling method was used for the study. The selection and collection of required parameters relied on the informed consent of volunteer subjects. This was done by giving them a copy of the informed consent letter which was signed and dated. A total of 1,200 subjects (Bini 400, Ikwerre 400 and Ibos 400) subjects were recruited for the study. The fingerprints were obtained using print scanner (Hp G3110 Photo scanner). Results and Discussion: The value of PI in the males across the three ethnic groups showed that the Ikwerre people had an index value of 117 bilaterally; the Bini people had 121 on the left and 122 on the right hand; while the Ibos had 121 bilaterally. The value of PI in the females across the three ethnic groups showed that the Ikwerre people had an index value of 117 on the left and 116 on the right hand, the Bini people had 118 bilaterally; while the Ibos had 122 on the left hand and 121 on the right hand. The value of PI in the total population across the three ethnic groups showed that the Ikwerre people had an index value of 117 bilaterally; the Bini people had 120 bilaterally; while the Ibos had 122 on the left hand and 121 on the right hand. Conclusion: The result of this study concludes that the Ikwerre people are likely from the Bini stock as suggested by oral history as depicted by the proximity in the Paul’s Index value (Ikwerre 117, Bini 120) between the Ikwerre and Bini people.