NigerMan1:


9jacrip - stop sounding as if HISTORY discourse is a wrestling match.

Am an EDO man to the core!

For me, history is 100% academic and scholarly work - not a chest beating context; not for grandstanding; not for propaganda as you Yorubas have been, unfortunately made to believe.

Which Edo are you?

Bini, Esan, Afemai, Akoko Edo, Owan, Eka etc?

stinggy:


He was the most adventurous and he commanded the Army at that time.

Which army? Ife army? If so u are wrong
All princes had their units - Ajagunla(great warrior) Orangun infact had a larger and more efficient military unit than Oranmiyan had
Ogun was a legend in battle- hence his adoption of the name of the War God
Oranmiyan wasn't promised anything
The young man didn't even have a crown all through his sojourn away from Ife

MrPresident1:


Which Edo are you?

Bini, Esan, Afemai, Akoko Edo, Owan, Eka etc?

Eka is now Edo? Fascinating.

MrPresident1:


Which Edo are you?

Bini, Esan, Afemai, Akoko Edo, Owan, Eka etc?

To me, He doesn't seem an Edo man, but I'll give him a benefit of doubt.

TonySpike:


To me, He doesn't seem an Edo man, but I'll give him a benefit of doubt.

I have a point I am driving at, and I would want him to answer the question.

He has to tell me the 'Edo' he belongs to.

tonychristopher:
The names you have listed are compounded. Remember that in Edo language, sentences or phrases tend to coalesce into single words with the vowels elided or euphonic letters inserted, making it difficult to determine the precise words, which are the component parts of such a phrase. The first four letters "Idun" could have been shortened from Idunwun meaning "district" or "area" or "section".


Thus:
"IDUNMAGBO" would be district of 'magbo'.
"IDUNGANRAN" would be district of 'ganran'
"IDUNMOTA" would be district of 'mota'
"IDUNTAFA" would be district of 'tafa'


Nigeria: Living Room


The meanings of 'magbo', 'ganran', 'mota' and 'tafa' will be difficult to pin down precisely now but could have been shortened from any one of numerous Edo names - probably names of Warrior settlers or other such relationships. They might even be names of villages or village groups conquered and brought into Eko - the prisoner of war camp. Either explanation would make sense because the names you have provided are mostly districts in Eko (now Lagos).

The second possibility is that the first three letters stand for "Idu......" where Idu stands for a well known ancient Bini idol.

There is a whole vocabulary of old Edo that relates to architectural and other technical items (including weapons and military formations). I may need to check on this to really know whether there are other meanings not only for the Idun... words, There are several members of the royal family on the list. I am copying this message to them.

Stay in touch. We will certainly call on you to get materials for such a link to celebrate our ancestral ties.

There is much to be re-discovered.

Why not go down to Lagos to find answers boy

NigerMan1:


macof - you are welcome. Am sure you and the other yorubas disouting Lagos / Oba of Lagos ancesrty are the Yoruba migrants to Lagos.
Anyway read what Oba Akiolu said:

Read what Oba Akiolu said about their Ancestry:

"Lagos is partly Yoruba and partly Benin. The matriarch was an Awori, a Yoruba, and the patriarch was a de­scendant of an Oba of Benin"

"In those days, Eko was Eko before the advent of the Portuguese adventurers who came and named it Lago de Curamo, which means land near the water. There is a town in Portugal called Lagos. They named this place after their Lagos over there. They assisted in rebuilding the throne room and that is why it’s called Iga. The palace is a place of pride and honour. The custodian of the throne must be very frank, have goodwill, be absolutely honest and love his subjects because anything he says will come to pass."

SOURCE: http://sunnewsonline.com/new/?p=102716

You are really not bright. . Hatred has dulled ur intellect. Try to calm urself and break free from hate, whatever offense done to you by a yoruba person can be forgiven

Nobody is denying Bini descendants in Lagos

Lagos state has Ekiti, Ijebu, Oyo, Egba, Bini, Awori, Egun, Itsekiri descendants
But let's talk Eko (Lagos Island ). .. The Island is owned by Awori - Aromire , an Idejo had his farm at the island , the site where the Bini descendants settled while he settled at Idumota - his lineage are still present there wit their palace
Oba of lagos having Bini ancestry doesn't make Lagos Bini property - it neve was, if it was the idejo cannot still be claiming the LAND- the Bini lineages in Eko don't dispute this
The Bini descendants settled in Isale - Eko, up till Enuwa where Idumota began
Aromire still holds his land
The Oba of Lagos doesn't own landed property by virtue of his ancestry, he owns only influence and respect

NigerMan1:


9jacrip - believe you're a true 21st century Yoruba. Indeed you're a champion of 'lies and propaganda'

The Oba of Lagos, a highly educated man in 70s was asked the history of Eko and replied thus:

"Lagos is partly Yoruba and partly Benin. The matriarch was an Awori, a Yoruba, and the patriarch was a de­scendant of an Oba of Benin"

However, you (9jacrip) with no single cultural and ancestral AFFINITY to Lagos, stood akimbo to dispute what the Oba openly said about his ancestry and Eko? Unknown to you and fellow younger generation Yoruba army of liberation, The Oba's father, the late Oba Oyekan said the same thing when he was alive.

I deliberately RESERVED this to allow you guys dissipate your energy and fired all salvo before sharing the link. My brother, please make una go sit down - the Eleko of Eko has spoken; that his ancestral parents are Awori woman and Benin Man:

Despite providing links to prove historical facts you still labeled me as a champion of propaganda - I give up on schooling you.


The fact that your Benin skewed history holds no water has made you shift your goal post severally but this is the height of it.

If you like, reserve your ancestor's undies, your obvious inability to connect the Oba's statement to the historical fact of Benin's minute part in Awori history tells a lot about your intelligence level. I honestly hope you're not a graduate of history, it will be am embarrassment to your alma mater and historians all over.

The Oba's statement, incase you missed it, only reiterated the historical facts.

There's no angle you try to tilt the debate to that the historical facts would not trounce you.

You can take it as far as Awori not being Yoruba then you can tell me the etymology of awo-ri, tell me about ogunfunminire and their migration from Ile-Ife. And while you're at it, keep in mind a number of Yoruba towns have their family compounds/quarters in Ile-Ife and these includes Ikire, Ikoyi, (i)Remo, Ijebu-Ife, Omupo etc

I'm willing to take the debate up a notch and rip you apart completely.

I'm waiting.

macof:

Another mad man. You make silly claims and call them facts

Wat is fact about a mad man saying yoruba were slaves to Bini

You won't recognize fact even if it punches you in the face. Argue with your gate man.

macof:


Beautiful! I didn't know the Internet has a good write on the Idejo - why then do the same Internet history lovers ignore this when they see it?

I swear I don't know.

They could gave just hit google web, google books or even jstor and typed 'idejo'.

It is so easy.

macof:


I'll keep saying it until any Bini descendant in lagos proves otherwise. . THE OLOTO is head of the Aworis nt Oba of lagos
The olumegbon being the eldest Idejo apoints all Awori Obas including the Oba of lagos lineage

Any sane person would google these nomenclatures you mentioned but for them na lie, they would rather attack you.

macof:


That's wat we get when people refuse to stick to tradition and seek Awo for lessons but sit home and read Internet articles of such sensitiv matter

There's only one version of Oduduwa. Obadio is the head of the Oduduwa cult (9jacrip correct me if am wrong) surely his linelineage and the Ooni are in the best position to speak on Oduduwa not Bini clowns lik urself or igbo gowns like Tony nt even mere uninitiated Yorubas

You're correct sir, it is Obadio.

In addition, Obameri's clan also reserve the right to speak on Oduduwa also.

Obameri was Oduduwa's general, he was part of the group that led the war against Obatala and Yeemo.

macof:
they also bear Yorubic names

It rare. u hear names like nduka, nwanzi, nwagala, adaorie. I personal have not seen an olukumi person dear a Yoruba name

Mee234:

It rare. u hear names like nduka, nwanzi, nwagala, adaorie. I personal have not seen an olukumi person dear a Yoruba name

I know it's rare but they exist

I am i

macof:


Why not go down to Lagos to find answers boy

n


In lagos now

9jacrip:


Any sane person would google these nomenclatures you mentioned but for them na lie, they would rather attack you.

They won't search for what exposes their fallacies

To correct the popular idea that Awori are subject to Bini descendants among them
Olumegbon is always present in the process of selecting a new Eleko (Oba of lagos)
Aromire is called Onile (land owner) by the Bini lineages. .as he is the owner of their land

But Oloto don't require anybody to crown him

tonychristopher:
I am in


In lagos now

where in lagos? Why not take a trip to Isale-Eko

Passed there today via cms

macof:
where in lagos? Why not take a trip to Isale-Eko

macof:

You are really not bright. . Hatred has dulled ur intellect. Try to calm urself and break free from hate, whatever offense done to you by a yoruba person can be forgiven

Nobody is denying Bini descendants in Lagos

Lagos state has Ekiti, Ijebu, Oyo, Egba, Bini, Awori, Egun, Itsekiri descendants
But let's talk Eko (Lagos Island ). .. The Island is owned by Awori - Aromire , an Idejo had his farm at the island , the site where the Bini descendants settled while he settled at Idumota - his lineage are still present there wit their palace
Oba of lagos having Bini ancestry doesn't make Lagos Bini property - it neve was, if it was the idejo cannot still be claiming the LAND- the Bini lineages in Eko don't dispute this
The Bini descendants settled in Isale - Eko, up till Enuwa where Idumota began
Aromire still holds his land
The Oba of Lagos doesn't own landed property by virtue of his ancestry, he owns only influence and respect

with this analysis I think Benin man was oduduwa cos they seems to have influence in Yoruba instead of Yoruba having influence in Benin hence the term oba is a Benin word just like Eko and idu

MrPresident1:


Which Edo are you?

Bini, Esan, Afemai, Akoko Edo, Owan, Eka etc?

Knowing his origin I think is pointless what is imperative the historical fact here Bro

macof:

They won't search for what exposes their fallacies

To correct the popular idea that Awori are subject to Bini descendants among them
Olumegbon is always present in the process of selecting a new Eleko (Oba of lagos)
Aromire is called Onile (land owner) by the Bini lineages. .as he is the owner of their land

But Oloto don't require anybody to crown him

All facts.

These people will find way to wiggle and weave their way around facts.

Let's see what they'd have to say about this you've stated.

Simple google for these names, them nor go do.

tonychristopher:
Passed there today via cms

Lol cms is not Isale Eko exactly. .Isale Eko is more around Adeniji road from mainland bridge

Nd I don't mean passing by. Try visiting strategic locations and ask questions...you'll find something
I hope you speak good yoruba

tonychristopher:


with this analysis I think Benin man was oduduwa cos they seems to have influence in Yoruba instead of Yoruba having influence in Benin hence the term oba is a Benin word just like Eko and idu

Wrong, Yoruba have no Bini influence outside eastern kingdoms close to Bini
Oba is yoruba pls
Idu is also yoruba
Eko could be but I don't speak all Yoruba dialects. .
I read once that in Ife "Teko" is Farming
Eko could be farm, farming in Awori/Ijebu

tonychristopher:


Knowing his origin I think is pointless what is imperative the historical fact here Bro

You are ignorant. Let him answer my question.

Radoillo:


I do not even believe Eze Chime sojourned in Benin at any point, but at this stage this is still largely my personal opinion.

Radoillo, I completely agree with your original imagination. Authentic oral tradition shows that Eze Chima did not sojourn to Benin. From my deep-rooted and unbiased research, I think Eze Chima was from Arochukwu. Between the year 1700 and 1748, when the slave trade was still going on, Eze Chima from Arochukwu camped in Nri-Awka region with his followers from Abam, Ohafia and Bende areas. It is a known fact that the people of Arochukwu controlled slavery in Igboland. Just like many Arochukwu merchants at that time, Eze Chima knew accurate details of the entire Igboland and beyond. Having been very successful in the slave business, he finally wanted a large expanse of land where he could settle with his followers and form his own kingdom. Initially, he wanted to conquer some communities around the Nri-Awka region, but seeing the religious leadership of Nri and Aguleri people, he changed his mind, made friends with them, and decided to venture into the Igbo communities west of the Niger river (today's Anioma area). His new friends from Nri-Akwa area together with his original followers from Abam, Ohafia and Bende areas, crossed the river Niger with him, and as they went westward, they considered all those communities conquered because they did not encounter any resistance until they got to Agbor. It was at Agbor that Eze Chima and his group began to see huge opposition, and as a result, they decided to flee eastward, and in the process of their escape they founded the villages of Onicha Ugbo, Onicha Olona, Obior, Obomkpa, Onicha Mmiri, etc. Please refer to the book "History of Greater Agbor" written by an Igbo man named Iduwe Egwabor who is a native of Agbor. Even today, Onicha Ugbo, the descendants of the first son of Eze Chima, say emphatically that Eze Chima came from Nri. This oral tradition purely remembers the place where Eze Chima's secondary migration started, while his primary migration started from Arochukwu.

MrPresident1:


You are ignorant. Let him answer my question.

He is not just ignorant. He is very subjective and represents the worst form of a bigot, like his brother wilywily, here on Nairaland.

Must u be abusive

MrPresident1:


You are ignorant. Let him answer my question.

macof:

Wrong, Yoruba have no Bini influence outside eastern kingdoms close to Bini
Oba is yoruba pls
Idu is also yoruba
Eko could be but I don't speak all Yoruba dialects. .
I read once that in Ife "Teko" is Farming
Eko could be farm, farming in Awori/Ijebu

That is a blatant lie and benin influence in Yoruba is glaring

tonychristopher:


That is a blatant lie and benin influence in Yoruba is glaring

Really? Glaring you say
OK pls show us this that is so glaring

pazienza:



Ezechima was not a Bini Prince. He was an Igbo man who grew in wealth and influence in Ancient Bini, so much that he dined with kings.
No Bini Prince answers an Igbo name Ezechima, Binis are too proud a people for such. Azikiwe story is irrational, Bini was a great kingdom, many wants to attach themselves to Bini, but a little bit application of common sense will tell you that a Bini Prince can't be given an Igbo name.

Well I wouldn't use such word "irrational" to describe Azikiwe's story. You and know, the great ZIK was far too accomplished academically and internationally reputed to boot. Remember Zik isn't the only prominent Igbo man who traced his ANCESTRY to Old Benin and openly published it. A number of professors, scholars even Dr. Philip Emeagwali openly said the same thing.

Maybe we should work with the clue provided by his generation. Issues of ancestry calls for an open mind; must be searched from all angles to arrive at a whole. Maybe the Eze Chima changed his name after several years he sojourn with others to present day Onitsha? Maybe not!

[i][/i]

macof:

Really? Glaring you say
OK pls show us this that is so glaring

The Yoruba sub-groups such as the Awori .and coastal Ijebu constitute the bulk of the indigenous inhabitant. these groups could be distinguished from other ethnic groups in the area on the basis of their language with variations of dialects, traditions of migrations whether directly or indirectly from Ife; traditions amongst most of their rulers of descent from Oduduwa (the eponymous hero of Yoruba), affinal relation with Benin, and existence of Yoruba cultural feature such as regal paraphernalia, facial makings, as well as physical outlook. The various practices and socio-political organization. The wide0spread nature of these features is in-part a product of diffusion, and ancestral connection, but largely the result of common imperial experience f groups of Edo invader from Benin. Though, the power of the Benin kingdom was impressive as early as the second half of the fifteenth century during the reign of Oba Ewuare, Benin occupation and subjugation of Lagos and its neighbourhood did not start until the sixteenth century when Benin troops and trades took effective control of the coastal region from the Niger Delta in the East to Porto Novo in the West.

Ewuare ascendancy to the throne of Benin in the early fifteenth century put the kingdom into a splendid period of successful and rapid expansion. With a formidable military arsenal, strong, well equipped and battle-ready army, Benin became a terror and lord ;of her neighbouring settlements. She successfully laid the tradition of imperial annexation of coastal Yorubaland. This interest was reinforced in the 1550 as a result of the relative peace at home and the growing European trade on the coast which Benin wanted to control. The need for areas of economic control, security, free flow of coastal trade, as a result of the need to secure the base for harnessing goods from the inland made the control of Lagos a necessity for Benin. By the opening of the sixteenth century a large section of eastern Yoruba land had come under Benin influence and the Ilaje territory on modern Ondo state served a passage to the far western coast in the area of modern Lagos. Thus, the areas beteen Lagos and Porto Novo became the focus of Benin military activities till the seventeenth century. In this century, Mahin, an Ilaje communities founded by immigrants from the neighbourhood of Itsekiri and were sdestroyed, while Isheri Olofin, Lagos, Ido, Ebute Metta, Oto-Olofin and other coastal Yoruba communities in the area fell to superior Benin invading army.

After Oba Ehengbuda (C. 1578-1606) who consolidated the imperial achievement of Orhogbua (C. 1550-1578), Benin entered a long period of internal crisis. The Oba stopped being forceful as they no longer led their subjects in battles; rather, they reinforced their mystical attribute, palace rituals and led a secluded life. As a result, the noble men, chiefs and ambitious individual especially the soldiers seized the opportunity to increase their powers and founded their own kingdoms at the expense of the monarchy. Although, the era of warrior kings was terminated in the 17th century with the reign of Oba Ehengbuda who died on his way to Lagos, after him, priests and aristocratic rulers began a prolonged civil war which encouraged the flight of many families and soldiers to different parts f Lagos state. At the western extreme, the situation was such that the colonies were disbanded as a result of ineffective military and personal ambitions. The immediate effect of this was the widespread dispersal of Benin cultural traits. Added to this, the rise of Agaja Trudo of Dahomey (C. 1704-1740) and his coastal military in Porto Novo, coupled with internal disorder in Benin was decisive factors in the emergence of many Yoruba settlements founded by people of Benin origin in Lagos state. Other settlement in the region were founded by warriors, brave hunters, fugitives, refugees and adventurous individuals from other parts of Nigeria but such groups were not shielded from the effects of Benin militarism and cultural imposition.

The influence of Benin pervades every sphere of life of the Yoruba of the coast especially Lagos. The name of some of their towns, their folk tales, rituals, dialects, music, regal goods and dances in varying degrees portray evidence of close interaction with Edo. This is a manifestation of the nature of Benin relations with coastal Yoruba land from about 1500 onwards. Benin invasions of the region of Lagos were profound in shaping the socio-political, economic and culture history of the Yoruba settlement in the area that the erroneous impression that Benin kingdom actually founded all the pre-nineteenth century coastal Yoruba settlements was created. Oral traditions and archival source materials show that not all the Yoruba settlement in the area were actually founded by people of Benin origin.

Benin Invasions and Lagos and Awori Land
A major theme in the historical development of coastal Yoruba land in the sixteenth century was the collapse of many settlements as a result of Benin interests and military incursion into the region. The exact date when the Benin regular expedition began in the region of Lagos and Awori was not known. What is clear is that the region is had long been affected by the events in the interior, thus making Awori land the refuge of those seeking social security. There are many conjectures as to the presence of Benin military personnel in thee region of Lagos in the sixteenth century. A Benin source recorded by the Talbot, says that the first Benin settlers were part of an invading army which was unable to return to Benin and therefore encamped in Lagos at a place called Ogulata which is possibly a corruption of Ebute-Metta. Another tradition posits that it was Oba Orhogbua who, in about 1550 made his camp, Eko, on Lagos Island. What seem incontrovertible is that the Edo had already had camps and satellite states in Ikale and Ilaje areas before the major expedition to the Awori country. The quick response of Benin authorities to demand for military assistance and reinforcement, in the conflict between the party of Ogunfunminire and that of Aina Elewure, and the number of expeditionary wars in Awori land suggests that the invading armies were near to Lagos than to Benin soldiers could have been recruited from Benini Satelite camps from the east of the coastal Yoruba land.

The first military encounter between Benin and Lagosians which is well remembered in tradition is associated with prosperous, powerful and influential woman in Lagos who kept a large number of domestic animals on the account of which she was popularly nick-named Aina Elewure (Aina the goat rearer). It is stated on account of her riches she became a victim of communal jealousy and organized conspiracy. Her opponents falsely accused her of witchcraft and she was requested to go on exile since it was for people with witch craft to be sent to exile. Her resistance led to disputes in which her economic base was destroyed. Consequently, she left for Benin where she implored the king’s assistance in avenging the wrong done to her person and belongings. The Oba sent some of his men in canoes to Olofin Ogunfunminire at Ido to make enquiries. The messengers on getting near Iddo Island, observed from the distance, fishing stakes on which were hung fishing baskets and mistakenly took them for men who were ready to fight them. They at once returned to Benin and reported to the Oba that the inhabitant s on the Islands were strongly armed, and ready to attack them. The Oba thus decide to send the imperial army with three war captains named; Aseru, Akigbida and Olorungbiwe. The army attacked Ile-Olofin and his men repulse this attack. In a much futile effort to subjugate the Island, and alliance was made with Ajaye of the wives of Ogunfunminire. The tradition represent a classical of an aggrieved Aina-Elewure’ party, in a state troubled by internal dissension and socio-economic crisis, appealing for outside help against the majority and more powerful party. One observation here is that Aina did appeal to Benin and not to Ife or Oyo which were not only powerful Yoruba kingdoms but also the ancestral homes of the early Yoruba. An immediate suggestion is that the two parties belong to two different political backgrounds. Apart from the view that Aina was aware of the growing power of neighbouring Benin settlements along the coastal corridor, there is the plausible suggestion that she was one of the early Benin traders in the area.

This suggestion is reinforce by the fact that the early sixteenth century, the region was regularly visited by fishing folk from the area of the Ilaje, Itsekiri and Benin, and that by the seventeenth century the Benin traders were already on the coast in the Lagos Area. Added to this, the quick military response of Oba of Benin to Aina Elewure’s case would be explained in the terms of the need to control the economy of the area in the age of Benin imperialism and profitable European trade.

In spite of the great impact of Benin kingdom on the people and the settlement in the region, there are strong indications that Benin, as powerful as she was could not always have its ways without checks and balances or a competitor. In the military encounter at the battle of Isheri, one of the Benin Military generals, Aseru lost his life. Also, the prolonged nature of the war conquest, the enforced journey of Olofin to Benin and his eventual restoration as indicators that the aboriginal inhabitant of coastal Yorubaland in the Benin invasions were not push-over. Indeed, the return of the Olofin and his restoration as a vassal of Benin is a compromise between the conqueror and the conquered group. With an army of between 20,000 and 100,000, Benin successfully established a firm base and campus on Lagoon of the Lagos Island. Important places like Aromire’s pepper farm (Igaran), Ebute Ero and Enu-Owa became occupied by the people of Benin origin.

The resistance to Benin occupation continued till the opening of the seventeenth century. The Benin colonial administrator had to seek foreign support to suppress incessant revolts. It has also been suggested by evidence that activities of the foreigners (Benin) mercenaries precipitated a crisis which led to the death of Ogunfunminire under circumstance which suggests that his children though Ajaye (who had collaborated with Benin traders), were guilty of regicide. The death of Ogunfunmire put-paid on Lagos resistance. The children of Ajaye were consequently incorporated into the dynasty created by Edo in which four classes of chiefs wee created.

The Lagosians and indeed the people of Lagos state would continue to remember the incursion of Benin into the territory for long, as a result of emergence of Benin-Awori settlements and influence in the socio-political institutions. The Benin-Awori settlement were founded in the region of Aworiland by Benin imperial troops; Ojo, Iba, Idoluwo, Obanikoro, Ijanikin, Oto-Awori, Gbanko, Osolu, Omore, Ibiku, now Ibiye among others have rich traditions linking the origin of most of them to Benin in spite of recent attempt to link some of them with interior Yorubalands. Until the opening of the twentieth century possession of white caps and Abere (Scepter) as a symbol of authority confirm royal linkage with Benin. Although, the impressive population of Yoruba immigrants from the interior that settled among the groups imposed a distinctive emblem of Yoruba-Awori and Yoruba-Ijebu culture on the groups, most traces of their Benin origin are preserved in tradition, royal costumes and traditional titles.

Impact of Benin Invasion

The impact of Benin invasion on Lagos state depended largely on the character of each local ruler, the military and economic strength of the area, the degree of political stability in Benin, and the strength of pre-Benin cultural features. In area where traditional rulers remain of Yoruba Origin, minimal influences were exerted on the traditional socio-political institutions. But in the areas ruled by people of Benin origin, greater Benin cultural traits could be noticed. Also, in settlements which overwhelming Yoruba population, Yoruba cultural values played a domineering role and the impact of Benin remained virtually blurred. Lagos like other areas of the state witnessed the impact of army occupation. Independent kingdoms and village settlements were subjugated by Benin military men. Soldiers were stationed at strategic locations where they could easily mount defensive garrisons and overlook the coastal regions.

Traditional kingdoms in the state lost their independence as many settlements such as Isheri, Ebute-Metta, Otto-Olofin, Iddo and Lagos were reduced to mere vassalages. In some places apart from the establishment of military garrison, Benin dynasty was forcibly enthroned and the traditional rulers were relegated to second rate political authorities. Lagos, like other parts of coastal Yoruba became a Benin tributary and a recruitment centre for Benin soldiers. Lagos as a vassal state, paid annual tribute to the Oba since the Eleko – provincial ruler of Lagos (Eko) held his office at the mercy of Oba of Benin. In Lagos, whenever there were constituent crisis, appeals were often made to the Oba of Benin for his political and spiritual sanctions.

In tradition, dynasty changes and socio-political re-ordering became some of thed legacies of Benin invasions in the region of Lagos State. Obaship institution inLagos was one of the legacies. Egharevba’s account claims that the system of government in Lagos oriented from the role of Ashipa (Esikpa) in returning to Benin the corpse of Aseru, of the Benin military commanders. According to traditions, Asipa wa given a staff of office, Abere, Gbedu drum and recognized as Eleko of Eko. He was followed from Benin by powerful men who assisted who assisted him in the governance of Lagos. These powerful men became the royal and the first class chiefs in Lagos. The Akarigbere headed by the Eletu-Odigbo – the traditional prime minister. Eletu-Odigbo is said to be the corruption of the Benin title Eletu Odibo who was the traditional supervisor of the voters in Benin. One account says he came to Lagos with Asipa from Benin to assist in the collection and payment of taxes. Until the Benin invasion in Lagos, there was no Oba on Lagos Island, hence, Aromire, the owner of the farmland occupied by Benin soldiers was not considered as an Oba but the head of the war chiefs. However, his marriage to an Edo woman who gave birth to his successor, Ado finalized the process of laying the foundation of Benin dynasty in Lagos through conquest and inter-group marriage. Benin-Lagos relations became that of the imperial power and a colony just as happened in other parts of Yorubaland which power and colony just as happened in other parts of Yorubaland which witnessed the invasion of Benin imperialism. Thus, it became almost compulsory in western Yoruba (Ekiti, Owo and Ondo) and among the Ilaje of the coast for heirs to the throne to undergo a period of tutelage in the art of governance in Benin court as Emeda (sword bearer). Ugbo traditions talk of such socio-political and spiritual relations among early Ilaje traditional leaders and Benin court. It is therefore not a surprise that the Benin presence was accompanied by reforms in the traditional setting and adoption of Edo titles and customs. Benin names and titles such as Sasere, Isowa, Ojomo, Lisa (Oliha), Ologbosere, Esoghan (Asogbo) (Eso), Oloton (Olotu), Out and Iyase were adopted in varying degrees by the coastal Yoruba. Ologbosere for instance, belong the class of town chiefs called Eghaevbo, N’ore, Yasere or Sasere is a corruption of Benin’s Iyase. Iyase was the Benin principal Army commander in the seventeenth century until Ezomo (Ojomo) took over in the eighteenth century. The institution of Out in the northeastern part ,of coastal Yorubaland is of Benin origin. In Benin, an Otu is an association of freeborn retainers. It refers to palace chiefs such as Ivebo, Iweguae and Ibiwe. Ojomo and Olotu titles are also found among the Awori of coastal Yorubaland. The title Lisa (Olisa) among the coastal Ijebu is also a corruption of Benin Oliha. In the invasion of Ikorodu, Lisa Eregbuwa who led Benin contingent became the prime minister and chief executive of the town. His Keremesi, a large hat decorated in silk velvet is commonly found among the Benin traditional rulers. The Oba of Lagos also uses Keremesi which shows the Benin origin of Benin dynasty.

In addition, the palace of the Awori which is called Owa is a corruption of Benin word for palace – Ogwa. Isheri traditions relate the existence of two Owa – Owa Ile and Owa Oko that is the early administrative centre and the latter palace. The two are significant in the coronation of any Olofin of Isheri. In the coronation of Owa Oko, he is given the flat brass blade, a variant of the Benin model as symbol of Authority, while at Owa Ile, he is given the crtown as a political head. Two conjectures could be made as to the significance of double inheritance the Owa Oko represents the resemblance of relics of the early palace and settlement. The acceptance of the flat brass blade, variant of which is common among the Awori of Benin origin, is an indication of Benin conquest and the acceptance of the flat brass sword by the Awori in the area to rule as vassal of Benin. The need for social security and prosperity led to the dispersal of the group from an earlier settlement which as been impoverished by Benin invasions and exploration. The event in the coronation ceremony shows the assimilation of Benin political authority into the Awori civil community. The Ade given at Owa-Ile shows the reinstatement of Yoruba traditional political structure and royal regalia, while the flat blade received at Owa-Oko shows early Benin political influence, and the two symbolizes the nature of early socio-political history of the people. Owa is characteristically a large hall for administrative purposes. While the use of Owa as name is gradually giving way to Afin Iga or palace, its use among the priestly class is an evidence of the impact of Benin invasions on the socio-cultural values of the people. Also, the use of the name Iga for palace and Idu for house which are of Benin origins are some of the noticeable impact of Benin on Lagos as elsewhere in coastal Yorubaland.

Also, the Benin word for settlement Ido (Udo) is commonly found among the Lagosians, Awori, Ilaje and Ikale. Ido has become the name of one of the most important military camps established by Benin warriors along the coastal corridor of Lagos. The Ologun as a set of first class chiefs in the Akarigbere group emerged in Lagos. This include Onilebgbade, Eletu-Odibo, Eletu-Ijebu, Eletu-Iwase, Ologun Igbesodi, Ologun Atebo, Ologun Sogade, Ologun Agbeje and Eletu Awo. A common appellation for this class of chiefs is Alabere the possessor of Abere, a bladed sword as insignia of office. Also, Iyaso, a nonhereditary title in Benin is present among the Awori; Esogbo or Asogbon, Suenu, Bajulaye, Sasore, Basua, Oshorun, Okole has been traced to Benin origin, constitute the fourth class chiefs known as Abagbon with the appellation war chiefs, and with Keremesi or top hat as insignia of office.

Benin invasion of coastal Yorubaland set in motion series of demographic revolutions and largely determined the nature of spatial distribution of the groups. For instance, areas with natural fortifications and geographical barriers in form of swamps became the hideout of refugees wars drove many people from the main land areas of Isheri and Ebute-Metta to other areas where refugees’ camps developed. Elegushi of Ikate and Ojomu of Ajiran have traditions starting that they fled Ido to escape Benin raids to settle in Eti-Osa area on the shore of the lagoon east of Lagos. In social parlance, the presence of Benin in parts of Lagos state led to significant cultural and linguistic diffusion. Benin influenced the variety of the language spoken by the coastal Yoruba. The influence of Edo language on Awori dialect was so great that the early 20th century administrator labeled the language spoken in Lagos not as Awori or Yoruba but a Benin Awori for the high degree of Bini loan words.

Thus the picture which emerges today in Lagos is a synthesis of many linguistic compositin with significant Benin influence on the Awori, Ijebu, and their neighbours. There was a high degree of flavours of Benin accent on the Yoruba language spoken by the group. For instance, the word Owo-Money is pronounced Ogho, eewo a forbidden thing ios egho, Iku – death is Uku, Isu – Yam is Usu, Ile-house is Ule, Ese- foot is ehe and so on especially among thr Ilaje. Generally, the vowel and tonal forms of the Edo such as gh/gw/u are adopted by some coastal Yoruba – especially the Ilaje. Among the group, Owo –money is Ogwo, skin- Awo is pronounced and spelt as Agho, won or han- dear, costly is ghan. Ise-work as use, idin, and maggot is iden and ose –Sunday ohe.

On the noticeable social impacts of Benin invasions of the region of Lagos state was the assumption that most Yoruba of the coast and their settlements have their origin in Benin invasions and occupation of the region. The assumptions developed as a result of the impressive influence on the socio-cultural settings in the region. The early rulers in the coastal Yoruba land as a vassals to Oba of Benin adopted almost all the outfits from the latter. Among the outfit borrowed are white wrapper tied round the waist by members of the place society. The use of white caps sewn with angles to distinguished it from those of Yoruba origin, as well as the tying white cloth round the waist as a royal dress among the various classes of chiefs of Benin origin in Lagos state is one of the enduring legacies of Benin hegemony. Also, in the mode of dressing, especially the royal regalia and symbols of political authority, most traditional Oba in their royal costumes show striking resemblance with Oba of Benin. The Olorogun (Ologun) in Lagos shave their heads and tie white wrapper round their waist just like those of Benin, while the Oba’s wrapper is tied up to the chest. Both the Oba of Benin and those of coastal Yoruba lavishly dress in beads. The Awori like their Ilaje neighbours have abebe – and abere a large flat brass sword, made familiar in the carvings of the Oba of Benin as symbols of authority. This sword symbolizes the power of life and death as well as the authority to rule on behalf of Oba of Benin.

The use of Gbedu drum is one of the legacies of Benin invasions. Oral tradition shows that apart from Abebe, Ashipa (Esikpa) returned to Lagos with Gbedu drum from Benin. This drum was used in calling people for the meeting of the royal administrative chiefs- Akarigbere, whenever stately matters were to be discussed, this drum is known by the sound it produces in Edo beating style Edindingben. In different part of coastal Yorubaland, the Gbedu drum has remained a royal prerogative, largely confined to the palace and members of the palace society. Boat regatta- Oko –Aje is one of the important festivals serving as a pointer to the impact of Benin invasions of coastal Yoruba land. This festival runs across Lagos state. One account claims that Oko-Aje was introduced from different parts of coastal Yorubaland especially Lagos in commemorating Benin conquest of the region, thus representing the coming of Oba who allegedly conquered Lagos and other settlements in war boat. Other sources claim that it was in commemoration of Asipa’s carrying of Aseru’s dead body to Benin for burial and his return to Lagos with royal regalia as the Elekoof Eko (provincial ruler of Lagos). The two accounts signifies Benin influence of the Yoruba of the coast. This could be hardly surprising since there was the assimilation of the people of Benin origin and culture into predominantly coastal Yoruba population in the state. The familiar trend is the adulteration of two cultural values. However, what is most important is that Oko-Aje represents a Benin impact on the socio-cultural value of the Yoruba of the coast. Similar festival was held annually in Benin known as Oko-Eze. Oko-Aje appears to be a corruption of Benin Oko-Eze. Yoruba coastal communities such as Epe, Ikorodu and Ilaje have similar festival. The dressing and costumes of the canoe paddles in the Oko-Aje festival is similar to those of Benin people which is one of the enduring impacts of Benin invasions of the area of Lagos state.

Also, significant Benin impact features in aspects of religious beliefs and practices of the Yoruba. Oju-Olobun shrine is one of the legacies of the Benin invasions. Traditions have it that its location was the early camp of Benin warriors. Though Obun is an Ijebu word for market, it would appear that the spot developed into market settlement controlled by Benin but with impressive population Ijebu traders. The Obun tree which surrounded by religious sacrosanctity is called ihwin in Benin traditions. The importance of this tree lies in the fact that the installation of a new Oba in Lagos is regarded as invalid without the performance of sacred rites at Enu Owa the gate to the palace. The priest of these shrines dress in white robes and shave their head in same manner like the Ologun. This is one of the most important shrines visited during the coronation ceremony. Also, the existence of Ikanse, a form of ancestral worship in part of Yoruba land is one of the traces of Benin hegemony. This form of worship is said to have been introduced by Eleko and his Akarigbere class of chiefs. Ikanse is connected the making of holes in the apartment of chiefs and Oba in the remembrance of the ancestors. These ancestors are often appeased and their spirit invoked in the time of need. This is however similar to Ikanse homage or respect paid to Oju-Egun (ritual spot of Egungun) in parts of coastal Yorubaland. Oju-Egun is observed in the Iga of Akarigbere class of chiefs that claim Benin descent which symbolizes an aspect of Yoruba influence on Benin cultural values. There are also artistic and spiritual influence not only of Benin cultural values. There are also artistic and spiritual influences not only of Benin but of those who had been influenced by them in parts of coastal Yoruba land; fofr instance Igodo types of masks were found in Ibeju near Epe. These masks are said to be similar to those of Ijo people who have a water spirit called “Ekine”

The impact of Benin hegemony on coastal Yorubaland varied from group and from period to period. Socio-economic and political impact of Benin was largely dependent on the nature of controlled exercise by Benin conquerors. In places where Benin dynasties were established such as Mahin, Lagos, Idoluwo, Oto et al. higher degree of Benin influence is observed. In places where Benin population was scanty and control was weak, little traces of Benin influence survived as the impressive Yoruba-Awori population and culture, as well as those of Ijebu and Ilaje assimilated Benin cultural values. Also, the payment of annual tributes and reference to Benin for important political decision weakened over time in part of the region. When Lagos became a prosperous kingdom, attempts were made at shaking off the yoke of vassalage through the violation of some of the traditional protocols. The annual payment of tribute became not only intermittent but also a much more intolerable duty perfunctorily carried out. Lagos account says that during the region of Idewu-Ojulari and Oluwole, Benin emissaries sent to Lagos on tribute venture were sent back empy-handed.

Also, after Oba Ehengbuda, Benin monarchy was considerably weakened by palace chiefs as the kingdom witnessed a succession of weak and feeble rulers. This trend weakened Benin impact and the situation continued until the ascension of Akenzua 1 (1713-1735) who checkmated the influence of Uzama and Eghaevbo and set about rebuilding the monarchy. There was development in the level of socio interaction in the region as a result of influx of Yoruba of the interior and other groups to the region now known as Lagos state especially when the Ondo road was opened. Since communication is one of the essential features of social interaction. One of the major areas largely affected by the immigration of people of different cultures to the region of Lagos state was the language. The influence of Edo language on the linguistic repertoire of the area is as old as most of the communities. On the Awori for instance, the influence was so great that in the 20th century, the language of Lagos was described not as Awori or Yoruba but Benin-Awori.

However, the nineteenth century was to add a new dimension to the language of the many parts of the coast as the century witnessed the arrival of the people from Brazil, Siera Leone and Eupropean nations who engaged in commerce and social interactions with the Yoruba of the region. As a result, before the end of the century, a clear distinction had emerged between the dialect of Awori in the hinteland Ota, Ado-Odo and Igbesa, and those of the coast especially in the region of Lagos. This distinction could partly be accounted for the heterogeneous composition of settlements in the area.

Thus, before closure of the twentieth century, lagos had evolved as a region of cultural hybridization, and as a melting pot of groups, sub languages and dialects. The linguistic and cultural peculiarities of each group, was gradually watered down and the foundation of influential and almost homogenous Lagos variety of Yoruba language was laid. It could indeed be said that some of the words spoken by Lagos Yoruba are pidgins and have no genetic descent in Yoruba orthography. The fact that by 1900 Lagos had become a complex region with heterogeneous cultures and people. Though the region witnessed the influence of two major conquerors; the Benin and the British, the intermixture of cultures and multiplicity of groups in the area did not result in the evolution of Benin or British culture. Rather, a synthesis of cultures which is peculiar to the Yoruba of the coast particularly the Lagosians is noticeable.