72-590: Eweka I (reigned 1200 AD – 1235 AD) was the first Oba of Benin and presided over the kingdom's shift from the Ogiso Dynasty to the establishment of the Obaship . His 35-year reign had a notable impact on the political, cultural, and traditional aspects of the kingdom. Before Eweka I's rule, the Benin Kingdom faced uncertainty due to the banishment of Owodo, the last Ogiso , for misrule. Oduduwa , who
144-628: A child with Princess Erimwinde, the daughter of the Enogie of Ego. The child, in his early years, faced speech difficulties. However, with support from his father, who had established the Alafin dynasty in Oyo, the child overcame this challenge. During a game of marbles with other children, he exclaimed "Owomika," which was later adapted into "Eweka." For over 30 years, the administration of Benin City remained in
216-449: A chosen leader. This combination allowed Eweka to command respect among both factions in the kingdom, enabling his rise to power. Eweka I's familial connections extended to his offspring, who continued his legacy as rulers of Benin. His son, Uwakhuahen , succeeded him as Oba, carrying forward the dynasty that Eweka had established. This continuity reinforced the legitimacy of the Oba dynasty,
288-591: A cohesive entity. The settlement of Udo, located northwest of present-day Benin City, is believed to have been the initial capital of the Ogiso Dynasty. Some historical accounts suggest that the first Ogiso may have come from the Yoruba town of Ife, bringing the concept of monarchy and centralised governance. The transition from chiefdoms to a more organised kingdom under the Ogiso was a significant development in
360-465: A common louse for three years, symbolising their commitment to their potential king. Oromiyan resided in a palace constructed for him within the city of Benin. During his time there, he entered into matrimony with an Edo woman by the name of Erinwinde. Their union bore fruit in the form of a son, who was christened Eweka. Despite the successful completion of this task by the Benin people , Oromiyan recognised
432-475: A community known to the Binis as Uhe ( Ife ), where he adopted the name Oduduwa . Following Ogiso Owodo's death without an heir, the kingdom entered a period of interregnum. During this interregnum, Evian assumed the role of kingdom administrator. However, his successor, Ogiamien, sought to extend Evian's influence over Benin, leading to further instability. In an effort to restore the tradition of primogeniture,
504-519: A cornerstone of Benin's identity for centuries. Eweka's descendants further institutionalised the traditions and governance structures introduced during his reign, solidifying the monarchy's role in Benin's sociopolitical framework. After the exile of Owodo, the last ruler from the Ogiso dynasty , due to his actions, a period of uncertainty gripped the Benin region. During this turbulent era, Evian emerged as
576-468: A distinct impact on the dynasty's history. Ogiso Ere, the son of Igodo, succeeded his father and worked to further consolidate the kingdom. Ere was noted for his administrative skills and efforts to maintain peace and unity among the Bini people. He introduced cultural and technological advancements, including the royal throne (ekete), rectangular stool (agba), and round leather fan (ezuzu). His reign also saw
648-538: A mediator by the Edionevbo council during a prolonged interregnum. His tenure was marked by resistance from local factions, leading to his eventual return to Ife. Before departing, Oranmiyan fathered Eweka, who inherited his father's legacy while being raised in Benin by his mother's kin. Erinmwinde's status as a descendant of Bini leadership ensured that Eweka had a local claim to the throne. Her influence and connections were critical in establishing Eweka's legitimacy as
720-503: A prince from Ife to restore order, thus beginning the Oba Dynasty. The legacy of the Ogiso Dynasty remains in the cultural and historical consciousness of the Benin people, reflected in their traditions, folklore, and archaeological findings. The origins of the Ogiso Dynasty date back to around the 10th century AD. The dynasty is believed to have been founded by the first Ogiso, Igodo. According to oral tradition and historical records,
792-541: A principle that persisted over the centuries. Following Eweka I's death in 1235 AD, his legacy became an integral part of the Benin Kingdom's identity, influencing its governance, traditions, and cultural heritage. Eweka I, the first Oba of the Benin Kingdom, played a significant role in the historical transition from the Ogiso Dynasty to the Obaship in ancient Benin. His reign, which spanned from 1200 AD to 1235 AD, witnessed notable political and cultural changes that reshaped
SECTION 10
#1732765606502864-502: A prominent figure, a movement emerged to restore a monarch to the throne. This agitation led to internal conflict, prompting a group of elders, led by Oliha, to embark on a quest to locate Ikaladerhan, the exiled son of the last Ogiso, Owodo. Ikaladerhan had sought refuge in Uhe, known today as Ife. Upon reaching Uhe, the search party found that Ikaladerhan had assumed a royal status. Despite their best efforts, Ikaladerhan, now known as Oduduwa,
936-407: A role in founding the Oba dynasty after being invited by the Edionevbo council to address the governance crisis in Benin following the decline of the Ogiso dynasty . Erinmwinde, Eweka's mother, was the daughter of Ogie of Egor , a settlement northwest of Benin City. Eweka I's lineage represented the merging of Bini heritage and Yoruba culture. Oranmiyan's arrival in Benin followed his appointment as
1008-413: A role in shaping the circumstances that led to Eweka I's reign. A notable moment in Benin's history unfolded when Oduduwa recognised his son Oromiyan's potential and sent him to Benin as an emissary. Oromiyan's arrival marked a significant turning point for the kingdom, albeit met with resistance from the existing administration led by Ogiamien. Oromiyan, of mixed Yoruba and Benin heritage, struggled with
1080-437: A series of events that led to his downfall. Owodo struggled to address the kingdom's issues, leading to a loss of authority and control. Domestic problems, including the barrenness of his wives and the banishment of his only son, Ekaladerhan, further weakened his power. A plot believed to be divine will was devised to eliminate Ekaladerhan. However, the executioners, sensing deceit, spared his life. Ekaladerhan fled westward to
1152-530: A stabilising force in the administration of Benin, known for his role in subduing Osogan. Evian's reign, spanning nearly four decades, brought stability to the region but also generated controversy. In his later years, Evian appointed his son, Ogiamien, as his successor. However, this decision faced opposition from certain Edo individuals who argued that the throne should be reserved for those of royal lineage rather than commoners like Evian's family. Spearheaded by Oliha,
1224-423: Is evident in the cultural traditions and ceremonies observed by the Edo people today. The Ogiso Dynasty is known for its contributions to the arts and crafts, which were significant in the kingdom's cultural development. Skilled craftsmen and artisans emerged during this period, producing intricate works of art, including wood carvings and bronze sculptures. During Ogiso Ere's reign, groups of craftsmen, such as
1296-501: The Ogiso s were regarded as divine rulers, often referred to as "kings from the sky" or "kings of the sky." The establishment of the Ogiso Dynasty marked the beginning of a centralised political structure in the region now known as Benin. Igodo, the first Ogiso, played a significant role in laying the foundations for the kingdom's administrative and political systems. He governed various Bini chiefdoms and communities, integrating them into
1368-472: The Benin Empire . The Ogiso rulers were believed to have descended from the heavens, indicating the semi-mythical status they held among their subjects. The term " Ogiso " translates to "king of the sky" or "king from the sky," highlighting the divine status attributed to these monarchs. The origins of the dynasty are somewhat mysterious, with some accounts suggesting the first Ogiso may have come from
1440-517: The Ogiso Dynasty , was the earliest known ruling dynasty of the Edo people founded by Igodo, the first Ogiso of Igodomigodo . The dynasty began around 900 AD and lasted until the early 12th century, when it was succeeded by the Oba Dynasty . The Ogiso Dynasty significantly influenced the early sociopolitical structure of the region by introducing centralised governance and laying the foundations for
1512-488: The Benin Kingdom. The concept of divine kingship, where the ruler was seen as a mediator between the people and the spiritual world, became a central aspect of Ogiso governance. The Ogiso Dynasty experienced the reign of many influential kings and queens who contributed to the early development of the Benin Kingdom. These rulers included Ogiso Igodo, Ere, Orire, Akhuankhuan, Ekpigho, Oria, Emose, Orhorho, Oriagba, Odoligie, Uwa, Henenden, Obioye, Arigho, and Owodo. Each ruler had
SECTION 20
#17327656065021584-496: The Benin people's ability to nurture their ruler. However, recognising the importance of a monarch deeply rooted in Benin culture, Oromiyan relinquished his claim to the throne and returned to Uhe (Ife), emphasising the necessity of a leader well-versed in Benin's traditions and customs and that brought rise to the Eweka I as the first Oba of the Benin Kingdom. Eweka I's eventual reign, guided by his maternal grandfather, Ogiegor, marked
1656-409: The Edo (also known as Benin ethnic group). In 1897, a British military force of approximately 1,200 men under the command of Sir Harry Rawson mounted the Benin punitive Expedition . The force was dispatched in retaliation to the ambush of a British party, at Ugbine village near Gwato on 4 January 1897 by a group of Benin soldiers who were acting without orders from the Oba; the ambush had led to
1728-483: The Oba Dynasty. These rulers significantly influenced the early history of the Benin Kingdom through their contributions and challenges. Their reigns saw important cultural, social, and political developments that laid the foundation for the region's future prosperity. The Ogiso Dynasty was characterised by centralised governance, bringing various Bini chiefdoms and communities under a single political structure. The kings, known as Ogiso, were key figures in administering
1800-421: The Ogiso Dynasty to the Oba Dynasty was a significant turning point in the history of the Benin Kingdom. Following the period of instability and the rejection of Evian's attempt to establish his own dynasty, the people of Benin sent emissaries to Ife to request a prince who could restore order and legitimacy to their throne. Oranmiyan, a prince from Ife, was invited to become the ruler of Benin. His arrival marked
1872-471: The Ogiso period. The lost-wax casting technique created detailed bronze sculptures and plaques depicting various aspects of the kingdom's life, including portraits of rulers, deities, and important events. The artistic heritage of the Ogiso Dynasty is evident in the architectural achievements of the period. The construction of town walls, particularly those of Udo, showcases the kingdom's architectural skill. These walls were functional for defence and reflected
1944-516: The Onwina (carpenters) and Igbesanmwan (carvers), and were respected for their expertise and craftsmanship. Their work was integral to the kingdom's religious and cultural practices, producing items used in rituals and daily life. The common people formed the majority of the population, engaging in occupations such as farming, fishing, and trade, contributing to the kingdom's economy. The social structure emphasised cooperation and interdependence among
2016-448: The Onwina (carpenters) and Igbesanmwan (carvers), were established. These groups produced items used in royal ceremonies and daily life, such as wooden plates, bowls, mortars, pestles, and wooden heads placed on ancestral shrines. Ere also introduced the royal throne (ekete), rectangular stool (agba), and round leather fan (ezuzu), symbols of authority and governance. Bronze casting was another significant art form that flourished during
2088-421: The Yoruba town of Ife , introducing the concept of monarchy. Throughout its existence, the Ogiso Dynasty had thirty-one rulers, each contributing to the development and consolidation of the kingdom. Notable among them were Ogiso Igodo, the first ruler, and Ogiso Ere, who implemented several administrative and cultural reforms. This era saw the establishment of settlements, the integration of various chiefdoms, and
2160-452: The city palace were sold off to defray the costs of the expedition. Ovonramwen died in 1914, his throne never having been restored to him. His son, grandson and now his great-grandson, however, has preserved their title and status as traditional rulers in modern-day Nigeria . Source: There is some uncertainty in the dates of the reigns of some of the earlier warrior kings Ogiso dynasty The Dynasty of Igodo , also known as
2232-565: The city under his administration. Oromiyan settled in Usama, an outskirt of Benin, with the support of the Edion , 'Elders', led by Chief Oliha. Oromiyan faced challenges due to his Yoruba background, having been born and raised in Yoruba land, despite his Benin heritage through his father, Ikaladerhan. Oromiyan struggled with the Benin language and culture, unable to bridge the cultural gap. Also, Ogiamien, along with rival chieftains vying for
Eweka I - Misplaced Pages Continue
2304-467: The classes, ensuring the kingdom's smooth functioning. Slavery was also part of the social structure, with slaves performing labour-intensive tasks. Slaves were often captured during wars and raids or acquired through trade. They were considered the property of their owners and had limited rights and freedoms. However, slaves could sometimes earn their freedom through exceptional service or by being granted manumission. The Ogiso Dynasty's social structure
2376-514: The conclusion of his lengthy reign and the transition of leadership to his successors. Eweka I's death, with limited documentation in historical records, is believed to have occurred in Benin City, the capital of his kingdom. It followed a 35-year reign during which he oversaw a period of transformation and consolidation. As the first Oba of Benin, Eweka I made a lasting impact on the kingdom's political and cultural landscape. His rule witnessed
2448-411: The crown, created a hostile environment that marred Oranmiyan's reign. Eventually, he renounced his position and referred to Edo land as Ile Ibinu , 'land of annoyance and vexation'. He declared that only someone educated in the culture and traditions of Benin could rule the kingdom. Oromiyan then returned to Uhe (Ife). On his way back to Uhe, Oromiyan briefly stopped at Ego, where he fathered
2520-483: The cultural differences and eventually settled in Usama, on the outskirts of Benin City. Oromiyan resided in a specially constructed palace in Benin, where he entered matrimony with Erinwinde, an Edo woman, resulting in the birth of their son, Eweka. The Benin people, demonstrating their loyalty, successfully completed a unique task set by Oromiyan – caring for a common louse for three years, symbolising their commitment to their potential king. This act convinced Oromiyan of
2592-486: The current Benin Dynasty. The decline of the Ogiso Dynasty resulted in a power vacuum and chaos within the kingdom. The lack of central authority and continued conflicts among the nobility exacerbated the situation, testing the kingdom's unity and stability. Despite Evian's efforts to maintain order, the need for a lasting solution to the leadership crisis led to the invitation of Oranmiyan from Ife. The transition from
2664-575: The deaths of all but two of the British party. The British force captured the capital of the Kingdom of Benin, sacking and burning the city while forcing the Oba of Benin, Ovonramwen , into a six-month exile. The expeditionary force consisted of both indigenous soldiers and British officers based in colonial-era Nigeria . Numerous artworks (collectively known as the Benin Bronzes ) looted from
2736-453: The deities and seek their blessings. The ancestor cult was significant, with rituals honouring deceased ancestors and seeking their guidance. Mythology and oral traditions shaped the people's belief systems. The Bini people viewed the Ogiso era as a period of social creation, comparable to the creation of the land itself. Legends and myths about the origins of the Ogiso and their divine lineage were passed down through generations, reinforcing
2808-414: The early Benin Kingdom. His reign marked the beginning of centralised governance, uniting various chiefdoms and communities under a single political entity. Igodo's leadership is often associated with semi-mythical qualities, emphasising his perceived divine origin as a "king from the sky." Igodo established the initial capital of the Ogiso Dynasty at Udo, northwest of present-day Benin City. Udo served as
2880-590: The elders embarked on a mission to locate Ekaladerhan, the legitimate heir of Ogiso Owodo. The elders, led by Oliha, aimed to bring Ekaladerhan back to assume his rightful position. Upon finding him in Ife, Ekaladerhan expressed reluctance to return but entrusted his son Oranmiyan to the care of Oliha, who assured his protection. Oranmiyan's reign in Benin was brief due to resistance from Ogiamien and cultural clashes. On his journey back to Ife, Oranmiyan stayed at Ego , where he fathered Eweka I , who would later establish
2952-412: The emergence of proto-urban centers and the integration of various cultural and social practices that would later influence the development of the Benin Kingdom. The reign of the Ogiso is characterised by the establishment of important cultural and religious practices, some of which continue to be observed in modern Benin. Ogiso Igodo, the first king of the Ogiso Dynasty, played a key role in establishing
Eweka I - Misplaced Pages Continue
3024-464: The establishment of Onwina and Igbesanmwan , traditional groups of carpenters and carvers. Queens such as Emose and Orhorho were also significant figures. Emose was involved in governance, while Orhorho's rule was marked by conflict. Orhorho's oppressive reign ultimately led to her demise. Ogiso Odoligie and Ogiso Uwa expanded the kingdom's influence and integrated various chiefdoms into a centralised administration. Their reigns focused on strengthening
3096-506: The establishment of the Obaship in Benin. The term "Oba," denoting kingship, gained prominence during Eweka I's rule, highlighting his historical significance without subjective language. Eweka I was born around 1185 CE in Benin City, during a period of political turmoil and transition in the Kingdom of Benin . He was the son of Oranmiyan , a Yoruba prince from Ife , and Erinmwinde , a noblewoman of Bini origin. His father, Oranmiyan, played
3168-580: The establishment of the Obaship, marking the end of the Ogiso Dynasty. Eweka I's legacy paved the way for his successors to carry on his vision for the Benin Kingdom. After Eweka I's death, leadership passed to his son, Oba Uwakhuahen. While Eweka I's reign brought about significant changes and consolidated power, his death facilitated a smooth transition of authority within the Benin Dynasty. The specific circumstances surrounding Eweka I's death and any associated rituals or customs may remain obscured by
3240-435: The growth of proto-urban centers, with Udo and Benin City being prominent examples. The decline of the Ogiso Dynasty began with the rule of the last Ogiso, Owodo, whose reign was marked by internal conflict and public dissatisfaction. This led to his banishment and a period of interregnum, during which the nobleman Evian attempted to establish his own line of succession. However, the people eventually rejected this, inviting
3312-505: The hands of the Ogiamien family until 1200 AD when a young king, Eweka I, assumed the throne. He ruled the kingdom with the assistance of his maternal grandfather, Ogiegor. Eweka I marked the end of the Ogiso Dynasty and the establishment of the Obaship in Benin. The origin of the term "Oba" remains a subject of debate, with some suggesting Yoruba influence, while others attribute it to the first Ogiso, Obagodo. Regardless of its origins,
3384-421: The identity of the Benin Kingdom and its traditional institutions. Eweka I's emphasis on the importance of rulers educated in Benin culture and traditions was a defining aspect of his legacy. His father's decision to renounce his own claim to the throne, citing the cultural gap between him and the people, reinforced the idea that only someone deeply rooted in the customs and heritage of Benin could effectively lead
3456-416: The importance of a ruler deeply rooted in Benin culture. He relinquished his claim to the throne, highlighting the need for a monarch well-versed in Benin traditions, ultimately paving the way for Eweka I's reign. Eweka I's rule marked the establishment of the Obaship in Benin, with the term "Oba" beginning to signify kingship during his time. He emphasised the significance of rulers educated in Benin culture,
3528-467: The introduction of practices that would later be integral to the Benin Kingdom. Historical records and oral traditions provide insights into Igodo's contributions, despite the mythical elements of his rule. His leadership emphasised diplomacy and the incorporation of diverse cultural elements into the kingdom's administration. Igodo's reign also saw the beginnings of important cultural practices and religious observances that continued to be significant in
3600-452: The kingdom saw the consolidation of power and a shift towards centralised governance, strengthening the authority of the monarch. The term "Oba," signifying kingship, began to take root during Eweka I's rule. While its precise origins remain a subject of debate, its popularisation and association with royal authority can be attributed to this visionary monarch. The concept of the Obaship, as defined and established by Eweka I, continues to shape
3672-470: The kingdom's cultural and artistic achievements. The social structure of the Ogiso Dynasty was hierarchical, with clear roles and responsibilities among the classes. At the top was the Ogiso, holding supreme authority as both a political and religious leader. The Ogiso was supported by a council of chiefs and nobles who assisted in administration and governance. The council of chiefs included influential leaders from different regions and communities within
SECTION 50
#17327656065023744-406: The kingdom's political and cultural institutions. Ogiso Henenden's rule brought stability and growth to the region, resulting in a significant population increase in Benin City. The last Ogiso, Owodo, faced internal strife and public dissatisfaction, which led to his banishment. His reign marked the end of the Ogiso Dynasty and the beginning of a transitional period that led to the establishment of
3816-452: The kingdom's trajectory. Before Eweka I's accession to the throne, the Benin Kingdom was under the rule of the Ogisos, with Owodo as the last monarch in this line. Owodo's removal due to misrule created a period of uncertainty in Benin, leading to Eweka I's eventual rise to power. Oduduwa, father of Oromiyan, had been exiled to Uhe (present-day Ife) before Eweka I's rule, and this exile played
3888-408: The kingdom, leading to unrest and factionalism. The invitation to Oranmiyan, and subsequently the rise of Eweka, was part of a deliberate effort by the Edionevbo to stabilise the kingdom by establishing a legitimate ruling dynasty. Eweka's maternal heritage connected him to the spiritual guardianship of the land, while his paternal lineage endowed him with external legitimacy, reinforcing his status as
3960-477: The kingdom, overseeing both political and religious affairs. The capital, initially located at Udo , was later moved to Benin City , which became the political and cultural center. The administrative framework established by the Ogiso included a hierarchy of officials and nobles who assisted in governance. These officials were responsible for justice, taxation, and military matters. Chiefs were appointed to oversee different regions, ensuring effective control over
4032-428: The kingdom. The judicial system was based on customary laws and practices, upheld by the Ogiso and appointed officials. This system was essential in maintaining social harmony and order. Religious practices were integral to the kingdom's administration, with the Ogiso viewed as divine rulers mediating between the spiritual and physical worlds. This divine status was reinforced through rituals and ceremonies emphasising
4104-457: The kingdom. These chiefs oversaw local governance, ensuring the implementation of the Ogiso's directives and maintaining law and order. The council advised the Ogiso on important state matters and served as a link between the central authority and local communities. The social structure also included skilled artisans and craftsmen who contributed to the kingdom's economy and cultural development. These individuals were organised into guilds, such as
4176-506: The kingdom. This principle has endured over the centuries, influencing the selection and education of subsequent Obas. Oba of Benin The Oba of Benin is the traditional ruler and the custodian of the culture of the Edo people and all Edoid people. The then Kingdom of Benin (not to be confused with the modern-day and unrelated Republic of Benin , which was then known as Dahomey ) has continued to be mostly populated by
4248-490: The passage of time. Nevertheless, his legacy as the first Oba of Benin and the catalyst behind the kingdom's transition from the Ogiso Dynasty endures in historical accounts. Oba Eweka I's legacy is indelibly etched into the history of the Benin Kingdom, marking a transformative era that forever altered the trajectory of the kingdom's governance, culture, and traditions. As the first Oba of Benin, his reign, which began in 1200 AD and spanned 35 years until his death in 1235 AD, set
4320-436: The political and cultural hub during the early years of his reign. His efforts to integrate various Bini chiefdoms and promote unity among the people were crucial in consolidating the kingdom. Under Igodo's rule, the kingdom experienced growth and development. He implemented administrative and social reforms that facilitated governance of the unified territory. These reforms included the establishment of proto-urban centers and
4392-422: The region's history, leading to the growth and expansion of settlements such as Udo and Benin City . The period of the Ogiso Dynasty is seen as a time of social creation and development, comparable to the creation of the land itself in the perception of the Bini people. Despite the semi-mythical nature of the Ogiso period, archaeological evidence and oral traditions provide insights into this era. The dynasty saw
SECTION 60
#17327656065024464-530: The rightful heir, as her lineage traced directly to the land's ancestral guardians. Eweka's birth is surrounded by symbolic narratives. According to oral traditions, his first spoken word as a child, " owomika ", was later Bini-ized into "Eweka," which became his name. Raised in Benin City, his upbringing was influenced by the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Bini people . His education and training were overseen by local elites and spiritual leaders, ensuring he
4536-437: The sacred nature of kingship. Belief in the Ogiso's supernatural powers and their connection to the gods strengthened their authority as rulers. The religious and mythological practices during the Ogiso period laid the foundation for the Benin Kingdom's spiritual and cultural identity. Many of these practices evolved and were integrated into the subsequent Oba Dynasty's religious framework. These practices' enduring significance
4608-422: The sacred nature of kingship. Temples and shrines dedicated to various deities played central roles in religious life, with the Ogiso performing rituals to ensure prosperity and well-being. Religion and mythology were central to the Ogiso Dynasty, shaping the cultural and societal framework of the kingdom. The Ogiso were considered divine rulers, intermediaries between the spiritual and physical realms. This status
4680-412: The stage for a long line of distinguished rulers and laid the foundation for the enduring Obaship in Benin. Eweka I's most profound legacy lies in his role as the architect of the transition from the Ogiso Dynasty to the Obaship. His reign heralded the end of a centuries-old system of governance, characterised by the Ogisos, and ushered in a new era marked by the authority of the Oba. Under his leadership,
4752-485: The term "Oba" began to signify kingship during the reign of Oba Eweka I in 1200 AD. Oba Eweka I's rule was a significant moment in the history of the Benin Kingdom , setting the stage for the reigns of his successors, including Oba Uwakhuahen and Oba Ehenmihen. The death of Eweka I, the inaugural Oba of the Benin Kingdom, marked a significant juncture in the kingdom's history. His passing in 1235 AD signified both
4824-570: The territory. This centralisation of power was crucial in maintaining order and fostering the kingdom's growth and development. During Ogiso Ere's reign, traditional groups of craftsmen, such as Onwina (carpenters) and Igbesanmwan (carvers), were established. These groups played significant roles in the economy and cultural development. Ere also introduced symbols of authority, including the royal throne (ekete), rectangular stool (agba), and round leather fan (ezuzu). The Ogiso exercised judicial authority, resolving disputes and ensuring justice within
4896-425: Was characterised by hierarchy and order, with each class playing a specific role in the kingdom's functioning. The integration of political, religious, and cultural elements within the social structure contributed to the stability and continuity of the Ogiso Dynasty. The decline of the Ogiso Dynasty began with the reign of its last ruler, Ogiso Owodo. His tenure was marked by internal conflicts, public discontent, and
4968-430: Was reflected in the title "Ogiso," meaning "king from the sky". Religious practices during the Ogiso period involved worshiping various deities and performing rituals to ensure the kingdom's prosperity. The kingdom's religious life centered around temples and shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses. These sites were places for communal worship and rituals. The Ogiso performed ceremonies and sacrifices to appease
5040-469: Was reluctant to return to Benin. However, he did agree to send his son to assess the Edo people's commitment to their king. In 1170 AD, Oduduwa sent his son, Oromiyan, to Benin. As a test of their loyalty, Oduduwa challenged the Edo people to care for a common louse for three years. Successfully completing this unusual task convinced Oduduwa of the people's devotion to their king. Oromiyan's arrival in Benin encountered resistance from Ogiamien, who controlled
5112-407: Was the father of Oromiyan had been exiled to Uhe (Ife), which eventually set the stage for Eweka I's ascension to power. The turning point occurred when Oduduwa sent his son, Oromiyan, to Benin as an emissary. Oromiyan's arrival was met with resistance, leading to his settlement in Usama, on the outskirts of Benin City . To gauge the loyalty of the Benin people, Oromiyan challenged them to care for
5184-430: Was well-versed in the customs and governance practices required of a future monarch. Despite his father's Yoruba origins, Eweka's identity was rooted in the Bini culture, nurtured by his maternal lineage. The sociopolitical climate of Eweka's early life was shaped by the aftermath of the Ogiso dynasty's decline and the interim rule of leaders like Evian and Ogiamwen. These transitional figures struggled to maintain unity in
#501498