THE REAL REASON WHY ỌBA OF BINI PALACE IS FIGHTING GOVERNOR OBASEKI
The ongoing conflict between the ọba of Benin and Governor Obaseki has deep historical roots dating back to 1914. At that time, the Benin Royal Family strategically aligned itself with the Ife-Yoruba, seeking the support of the Ooni to thwart the British from bestowing the throne upon Agho, The Obaseki (Minister of Commerce) of Benin. Obaseki, a British ally who served as an “unofficial Oba” during Ovoranmwe Nogbaisi’s exile to Calabar, lobbied for the throne after Ovoranmwe’s death. Despite his support from many Benin people and chiefs, Prince Aiguobasimnwi, backed by the Ooni and Egharevba, ascended as Oba Eweka II, solidifying the Ewakpe line’s hold on the throne.
From 1914 to the 1960s, Oba Eweka II and Oba Akenzua II maintained ties with the Yoruba Conference of Obas, respecting the seniority order with the Ooni as first, Alafin Oyo as second, and Oba Benin as third. However, after Nigeria gained independence in 1960, Akenzua II championed the creation of the Midwest region, distancing Benin from Yoruba influence.
In the 1970s, Benin’s status shifted from a smaller entity within Western Nigeria to a prominent presence in the Midwest region, prompting a reevaluation of historical narratives. Scholars like S. B. Omoregie, D. U. Edebiri, Prince Edun Akenzua, and Air Iyare reshaped historical perspectives, emphasizing Benin’s independence from Yoruba ties.
There are different theories actually but indeed it is true Omoregie wrote the first ekaladiran treatise in the first edition ekalidiran was Oromiyan and the name was imadoduwa
In the second treatise it became iyenduwa b4 finally settling for izoduwa.
This historical backdrop sets the stage for the current tensions, where the Benin Obaship firmly rests with Ewakpe’s descendants, not the Obasekis. Governor Obaseki’s rise to power adds a political dimension to the conflict, with suspicions from the palace about potential retaliation for past power struggles, or insubordination to the throne.
This is the origin of the battle going on presently. The Palace chief and citizens are being played like chess pawn.
Kinggram Correspondent, Benin City
