Ewuakpe
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Ewuakpe | |
|---|---|
| Oba of Benin | |
 Altarpiece representing Oba Ewuakpe, from Bode-Museum | |
| Oba of Benin | |
| Reign | c. 1700 – c. 1712 |
| Predecessor | Oroghene |
| Successor | Ozuere |
| Died | 1712 |
| Spouse | Iden |
| Issue | |
| House | House of Eweka |
| Father | Akenuzama |
| Mother | Ewebonoza |
Ewuakpe (r. 1700–1712) was the twenty-sixth Oba of Benin. Originally known as Idova, he was enthroned following his father Akenuzama's abdication due to old age. His ascension was intended to circumvent a prophecy by Ewuare the Great that foretold governmental upheaval under an Oba named Idova. However, his early rule faced resistance, with key figures and the general populace of Benin distancing themselves from palace activities and ceasing to provide necessary support for its operations. This led Ewuakpe to depart from Benin City and reside in Ikoka, the village of his mother, where he experienced additional adversity and engaged in humble tasks. The root of this widespread disapproval was traced back to a violent act he ordered during his mother's funeral. In a time of hardship, Ewuakpe sought the chiefs' support through traditional music and entreaty. A significant shift occurred when Iden, his spouse, consented to a ritual sacrifice to the gods, which resulted in the restoration of Ewuakpe's authority. This act influenced the chiefs to reaffirm their loyalty, thereby reinstating Ewuakpe's leadership. Following this event, Ewuakpe initiated reforms and strengthened his hold on power, which had a lasting impact on the kingdom's governance.
Ewuakpe's period as the Oba of Benin commenced with resistance from the chiefs and citizens.[1] Their absence from palace gatherings and refusal to provide essential services necessitated Ewuakpe's retreat to Ikoka, his mother's village.[1] In Ikoka, he faced adversity and undertook basic tasks.[1] This hostility was a consequence of his actions during his mother's funeral, which had led to significant loss of life and subsequent discontent.[1] Facing hardship, Ewuakpe appealed to the chiefs for support with traditional music.[1] A critical turn of events occurred when Iden, his wife, agreed to be sacrificed to the gods.[1] This event prompted the chiefs to renew their support, leading to the reinstatement of his leadership.[1] Ewuakpe then initiated reforms to enhance the kingdom's stability and ensure the loyalty of his subjects.[1]