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PIONEERING LANDMARKS OF OGBONA WOMEN INTRODUCTION The history of Ogbona cannot be fully understood or properly documented without recognizing the remarkable women whose courage, resilience, enterprise, wisdom, faith, creativity, and devotion helped shape the community across generations. While conventional historical accounts often emphasize traditional rulers, chiefs, political leaders, institutions, and prominent men, the development of Ogbona was also profoundly influenced by women who raised families, cultivated farms, built businesses, preserved traditions, taught children, served the church, participated in community affairs, defended their people, promoted social harmony, and transmitted indigenous knowledge from one generation to another. Some of the women whose lives and legacies are represented in this section include: Christiana Eladi Anaweokhai (née Atogwe), Aregwenegbe Amiekhamhe (née Ogboalo), Ebaluokpotso Eleta (née Igbanor), Ighonaghie Dunia, Ivhakhero Ikhane, Eghimegie Itsuokor, Asana Omutu Odior Okhoghiemhe, Omhonaya Idegbeaga Ebiama Ikoko (popularly known as Aeroplane), Oibo Ayalomhe, and Madam Sametu Oyagha Okolo Osigbemhe, Omutu Asekhauno, Omugha Osigbemhe, Oboh Orbih, Ododoibo Obeakemhe, Mrs. Titi Usomhine Ayeni, Omonaya Kadiri (née Ogboalo), Alice (Iyoyo) Erasor, Martha Itsefia Orbih, Alice Ibra Ogah, Omhonaya Edogamhe, Asabi Imhana Odior, Patty Obeakemhe, Christiana Amina Anabor, Theresa Uworati Anabor, Comfort Abakhue Atsegwasi, Janet Azaigbor Omadimhe, Florence Omadimhe, Oghogho Enegwea, Helen Omonobedo Imoagene, Christiana Amina Erua Anabor, Comfort Akhumeo Anaweokhai, Angelina Agbapalo Odior, Princess Veronica Omoneka L. K. Ogedegbe, Theresa Aikhumhetse Adamu Ikeku, Theresa Onanwuvho Aruokhai, and Prophetess Mary Itsuokor. Together, these names represent generations of Ogbona women whose lives, families, work, character, and achievements form part of the community’s historical memory. Their contributions covered virtually every aspect of community life. Ododoibo Obeakemhe became a symbol of courage and resistance through her leadership during the anti-tax struggle of 1961/1962, when Ogbona women confronted the oppressive enforcement of discriminatory taxation. She was supported by courageous women including Isomhepo Enamhegbai, Omomhirue Anabor, Aretsa Oboarekpe, and Omhonaya Ebraimah-Ikoko. Their resistance demonstrated the willingness of Ogbona women to stand together in defence of the dignity and welfare of their people. Other women became pioneers through cultural transformation and preservation. Princess Veronica Omoneka L. K. Ogedegbe (née Ebueso) introduced the modern wooden casket during her father’s burial in 1951, marking a major transition from the traditional Uko burial system to the practice that subsequently became established in Avhianwu. Oghogho Enegwea preserved traditional music, weaving, craftsmanship, and indigenous clothing, while Madam Sametu Oyagha Okolo Osigbemhe became an important custodian of traditional songs, folklore, dance, weaving, beads, ceremonial practices, and women’s cultural traditions. The religious and spiritual history of Ogbona was likewise enriched by women. Helen Omonobedo Imoagene devoted her life to Christian ministry, prayer, motherhood, and service. Dr. Mother Theresa Aikhumhetse Adamu Ikeku, known as Uwuore – Mother of Youths, combined traditional medical knowledge, philanthropy, community service, motherhood, and Christian faith. Uwomha Mary Itsuokor occupies a distinctive place as a pioneering prophetess and early trailblazer of the Christian gospel in Ogbona, whose ministry contributed to the gradual establishment of Christianity in the community. Women also made their mark through commerce, agriculture, education, family leadership, philanthropy, and community service. Chief (Mrs.) Christiana Amina Erua Anabor, known as Oreghokphe and Onyekhakha, became the first woman in the Avhianwu Clan to receive the chieftaincy title Oreghokphe of Avhianwu. Mrs. Comfort Akhumeo Anaweokhai distinguished herself as an educator, teacher, church leader, composer, and humanitarian, while Madam Angelina Agbapalo Odior became a respected matriarch remembered for farming, motherhood, faith, family unity, compassion, and service. The entrepreneurial and cultural achievements of Asana Omutu Odior Okhoghiemhe, Omhonaya Idegbeaga Ebiama Ikoko, and Asabi Imhana Odior further demonstrate the breadth of women’s contributions. Asana was an industrious farmer and homemaker who participated in traditional life. Omhonaya Idegbeaga Ebiama Ikoko, popularly known as Aeroplane, combined activism, trading, music, dance, and cultural participation. Asabi Imhana Odior distinguished herself as a trader, farmer, composer, dancer, mentor, and participant in the Ukpenokhua tradition. The cultural and social relationships between Ogbona and neighbouring communities were strengthened by women such as Uwomha Oibo Ayalomhe, a gifted composer, dancer, activist, and custodian of indigenous knowledge, and Mrs. Titi Usomhine Ayeni (née Iluke), whose advocacy of intertribal marriage, family harmony, and communal integration helped strengthen relationships between Ogbona and North Ibie. The experiences preserved in these biographies reveal a society in which women exercised influence in both visible and less visible ways. Some were educated; others had little or no formal schooling. Yet many possessed extensive knowledge of agriculture, commerce, traditional medicine, music, religion, marriage, child-rearing, crafts, ceremonies, and community affairs. Such knowledge was transmitted through observation, practice, storytelling, apprenticeship, family life, and participation in communal activities. These women were therefore not merely witnesses to the history of Ogbona. They were active participants in making that history. They were farmers and traders, teachers and caregivers, musicians and craftswomen, religious leaders and traditional practitioners, activists and community organisers, philanthropists and cultural custodians. Through their daily labour, exceptional courage, creativity, sacrifice, and service, they helped sustain families, preserve culture, resolve conflicts, strengthen communities, and prepare succeeding generations. Their stories constitute more than individual biographies. They are records of communal memory, evidence of social transformation, and landmarks in the development of Ogbona. They remind us that the history of the community was shaped not only in palaces, council chambers, schools, markets, churches, and public institutions, but also in homes, farms, family compounds, workshops, cultural groups, traditional ceremonies, and countless acts of everyday service. Documenting their lives is therefore an important act of historical preservation. It ensures that the achievements and sacrifices of Ogbona women are not lost with the passing of generations and that younger people can understand the important role women played in building the community they inherited. “Pioneering Landmarks of Ogbona Women” is consequently both a tribute and a historical record. It celebrates women who challenged injustice, introduced new ideas, preserved ancient traditions, strengthened families, built bridges between communities, served their faith, nurtured others, and contributed to the social, economic, cultural, political, and spiritual development of Ogbona. Their stories are part of the story of Ogbona itself—and their legacies remain an enduring part of its history, culture, and heritage.         THE AMAZON, MADAM ODODOIBO OBEAKEMHE & THE ANTI-TAX RIOT OF 1961/1962

CHIEF (HON) MICHAEL CLEMENT KADIRI ORBIH (KSM) (1927 – 2004) ROOTS: Michael Clement Kadiri Orbih was born on November 2, 1927, in Ogbona, Etsako Central LGA, Edo State, to Chief Orbih Ekhamhekpe and Madam Maria Oiboh Orbih (née Imoagene). He was his mother’s first child; his father was polygamous. After her husband’s death in 1951, his mother converted to Christianity and was baptized. EARLY EDUCATION: Chief M.C.K. Orbih began his education in 1937 at Catholic School, Ogbona. Due to limitations of the colonial system, the school only offered classes up to Standard Three, so he continued at Catholic School, Uzairue (1941–1942), and then at Catholic School, Agenebode, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate in 1943. Even as a child, he was known for being studious, principled, and determined. After obtaining his certificate, he attended St. John Bosco’s Teachers’ Training College, Ubiaja, in 1946 and received his Elementary Teachers’ Certificate (Grade III) in 1948. He taught for a year before passing the Grade II teaching exam in 1951, among the last teachers to do so without returning to college. TEACHING CAREER: With strong dedication, he began teaching, quickly rising to become Headmaster at Catholic School, Jattu (1949), Catholic School, Ogbona (1949–1954), and Principal at Blessed Martin Secondary Modern School, Jattu (1955–1968). In 1968, he moved to St. Thomas Catholic School in Uromi, then returned as headmaster at Ansaru-Deen School, Auchi, retiring voluntarily in 1972 at the age of 45 for business. Many notable personalities were among his students, including Prof. Philip Igbafe, Prof. (Mrs.) Sarah A. Shokpeka, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Mr. Martins Itotoi, Rev. Fr. Paschal Odemokpa, Mr. Stanley Dako, Mr. Linus Oshiokpekhai, Chief Pius Momodu, Chief Kas Enegwea, Senator Albert Legogie, and others who contributed greatly to national development. POLITICAL CAREER: Believing in preparation, he entered politics and, in 1957, earned a certificate in Local Government Administration from Ahmadu Bello University. Previously elected as a counselor in 1954 for the Etsako District Council, he chaired the Education Committee and served as the chair for ten years. When Local Government Administration started in Western Nigeria, he and other educators—Mr. Sado and A.B.C. Nasamu—won seats in the 1st Etsako Local Government Council, where they became highly regarded administrators, especially by promoting the Catholic Mission. His political influence grew as he was appointed to the Western Region Advisory Board on Education (1956–1959) and was elected to the Federal House of Representatives for Afenmai East (1959–1964). He was known for defending judicial independence and supporting the creation of the Midwest Region, even from the opposition. In the Second Republic, he chaired the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) Etsako LGA, was Bendel North Senatorial Leader, and served as Chairman of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital under President Shehu Shagari. He remained active in politics through the Third Republic with the APP and later the PDP. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES: Beyond education and politics, he contributed to socio-economic development. In 1968, he founded the Defacto Bar in Auchi, discovering and supporting musician Bolivia Osigbemhe. The bar later became the Hill Top Hotel, Auchi, opened in 1972. He was active in social and sporting clubs, founding the Auchi Club (1968), serving as President of Rotary Club International – Auchi, and promoting various sports. He also founded and supported the De Facto Football Club (1968–1972). RELIGION: A devout Catholic, he married Mrs. Christiana A. Orbih (née Otsemobor/Igbanoi), joined several church groups and became a 4th-degree Knight of St. Mulumba in 2003. He chaired the Avianwu Ordination Committee, regularly visited St. Benedict’s Monastery, Ewu, for prayer and meditation. COMMUNITY SERVICE: A respected leader in Edo North, he served as a mediator, mentor, and benefactor. As chairman of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, he ensured the establishment of Community Health Centres in Ogbona and Udo, serving as outreach for the hospital. For these services, he received several chieftaincy titles, including EKHAEVBE of Uzairue and AGBOKHAEBO of Avianwu—honours reflecting his leadership and community contributions. FAMILY LIFE: He was a loving, exemplary father who valued education and strong family ties, always keeping in touch with his children and relatives. His legacy continued through the names and achievements of his children and grandchildren. FRIENDSHIPS: Chief M.C.K. Orbih valued relationships deeply, as exemplified in his close bonds with Chief L.K. Ogedegbe, Chief Abuda Obeakemhe, Chief Raphael Odior (Papa V.T), and Chief T.A. Osigbemhe. Together, they significantly influenced the development of Ogbona and inspired generations toward education and professional success. FINAL ENCORE: It was a glorious Wednesday, 15 December 2004 that signalled the home call of this noble man, honourable, a worthy knight, an amiable father, a politician par excellence, a teacher, a man of the people, and above all, a devout Catholic whose name and personality evoked respect, awe, and honour among the young and old, as well as the poor and the rich.  

HRH WILLIAM ULOKO IDODE: (OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA (2008-2022) The Black Race has lost a titan: HRH William Uloko Idode, the immediate past Okphe Ukpi and Sub-Clan Head of Ogbona Community in Etsako Central, Edo State. The late Willy Uloko Idode was a steadfast pillar of the arts, culture, and traditions of Ogbona. His reign, spanning from 2008, brought peace, unity, and progress to his people. His thoughtful approach to leadership challenges and unwavering commitment earned him deep affection—he truly came, saw, and conquered. His 14-year reign, marked by honor and integrity, drew countless tributes from subjects, friends, and admirers alike. Idode’s legacy is defined by his boldness, courage, and selfless devotion to the advancement of his community. As a unifier and ambassador for peace, he guided Ogbona to newfound prosperity, with a special focus on empowering youth and restoring order. Shakespeare’s words ring especially true here: “When beggars die, there are no comets seen; the heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.” Chief Willy Idode’s fearless leadership left indelible footprints on Ogbona’s soil. Born on April 4, 1959, to Mr. Momodu Ojakpa Idode and Mrs. Lametu Amiunomhene Idogho of Ivhiobore Quarters, Ogbona, he left home at a young age to live with his uncle, Dr. J.B. Idode, in Benin City. There, he attended Arinze Primary School and Western Boys High School (1972–1977). Willie later moved to Kaduna to work with the Nigerian Defense Industry, but was soon called back home to teach, especially as his father’s health declined and he later passed away in 1986. In the years that followed, Willie ventured into business—engaging in trade, contract work, solid-mineral mining, and petroleum. Entering politics in 1996, he held several prominent roles, including Ward and Local Government Party Chairman, and served on governmental boards. Through his political and business acumen, he was instrumental in community development: renovating schools, providing furniture, constructing and upgrading health centers, drilling boreholes, expanding electricity, and creating opportunities for employment and education. Understanding the need for harmony, he established the Ogbona Reconciliation Committee to insulate traditional leadership from politics and foster unity. Under his leadership, Ogbona achieved relative peace, restored social order, and experienced transformational growth. His fair and truthful arbitration was matched only by his optimism and unrivaled love for his people. In 2007, urged by his kindred and elders, and with support from the late Chief Patrick A. Oboarekpe, he accepted the Egboise title—the second-highest in rank. With the passing of HRH T.A. Osigbemhe in 2008, he became the Okphe-Ukpi of Ogbona. He expressed deep gratitude for the collective progress achieved during his reign. Chief Willy Idode also made history by creating Ogbona’s first Advisory Committee, serving as a think tank and organizing body for community development. Subcommittees were formed for Security, Education, Town Planning, Health, Agriculture, Markets, Cultural Revival, and the Judiciary, ensuring focused progress and sustained peace. He passed away at the age of 63, survived by his three wives—Mrs. Nana Idode, Mrs. Paulina Idode, and Mrs. Afeghe Idode—his five children: Iregbenesi, Aloaye, Osilama, Oghoya, and Anoghena; his three grandchildren: Princess, Daniel, and Daniella; and foster children: Imoudu, Oshobughie, Oshioayemheya, and Monday Idode. The legacy of Chief William Uloko Idode’s vision and leadership will remain fresh in the hearts of Ogbona and beyond.

CHIEF JAMES OSHIOKPEKHAI KADIRI ODALUMHE (10 AUGUST 1915 – 31 OCTOBER 1996) Roots and Early Life Chief James Oshiokpekhai Odalumhe was born on August 10, 1915, in Ogbona, Etsako Central LGA, Edo State. He was the only son and the third child of Odalumhe Umosor Aikpabeghie and Madam Asimawu Odalumhe Umosor (née Emakheomhe of Iraokhor). Following the untimely loss of his parents, James was raised by his uncle, Ikhanoba, of the Aikpabeghie dynasty. Although industrious and bright, he initially lacked access to formal education, as there were no schools in Ogbona at the time. His life changed when a family friend from Agbede recognized his potential and took him under his wing to provide him with an education. Educational Journey 1926–1932: Attended primary school in Agbede, successfully obtaining his Standard Six School Leaving Certificate with distinction. Lagos Years: Seeking better opportunities, he moved to Lagos to work for his guardian’s elder brother, an employee of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). His dedication and integrity eventually earned him a clerical position within the NRC under the colonial administration. A Career of Firsts Chief Odalumhe’s literacy and technical aptitude caught the attention of expatriate officers. He was selected for advanced training in the United Kingdom, specializing in the maintenance of diesel engines. Upon his return, he was appointed Senior Diesel Engine Maintenance Manager (SDM). He became a pivotal figure in the national transport system; it was said that no locomotive nationwide could be certified for movement without his professional clearance. He retired from the NRC in 1978 after decades of meritorious service. Landmark Achievements & “The White Keke” Chief Odalumhe was a man of “firsts” who brought modern marvels to Etsako: The Bicycle: In the early 1940s, he imported a bicycle (the “White Keke”) from the UK. It was such a rare sight that it sparked celebrations across Ogbona, Fugar, and Auchi. The locals even composed a viral song: “Omaseli kekeooo Odalumhe seli…” ” Architecture: He built the first modern house in Ogbona, designed with British architectural influences. The house, featuring two molded lions at the entrance symbolizing courage, still stands today opposite EDC Primary School. Lagos Legacy: He developed a twin duplex in Alashia, Oshodi, which led to the naming of Odalumhe Street in Lagos in his honor. Community Leadership and Service Unlike many of his peers who remained abroad or in Lagos after retirement, Chief Odalumhe returned to Ogbona in 1978 to serve his people. Education: Alongside figures like Chief M.C.K. Orbih and T.A. Osigbemhe, he championed the establishment of the Ogbona Community Secondary School. He served as the PTA Chairman until his passing. Chieftaincy: In recognition of his contributions, the Clan Head of Avianwu, HRM Chief J.A. Alao, conferred upon him the title: The Evhoidu of Avianwu Clan. Faith and Family A devout Catholic and a Knight of St. Mulumba, Chief Odalumhe was a pillar of St. John Catholic Church, Ogbona. He served as the Chairman of the Catholic Men Organization (CMO) and was known for his unwavering commitment to Christian values. He was married to Mrs. Christiana Odalumhe from North Ibie, together, had five children (two sons and three daughters). He was a philanthropist who not only educated his own children but also supported extended family members and helped numerous Ogbona indigenes secure employment with the Nigerian Railway Corporation across the country. Legacy Chief James Oshiokpekhai Odalumhe passed away on 31 October 1996. He is remembered as a man of discipline, a pioneer of modern technology in Afemailand, and a leader who believed that the true measure of success was the upliftment of his community.

CHIEF THOMAS AJAYIE OSIGBEMHE, JP (OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA, 1994-2008) Chief Thomas Ajayie Osigbemhe, known as “Flames,” was born in 1930 in Fugar Town (present-day Edo State). From humble beginnings as the son of Omokpo and Omugha, he grew up in a polygamous family and embarked on a lifelong career in education and public service. Starting his career at age 15 as a pupil teacher in Roman Catholic schools, Osigbemhe became a full teacher by 1951. He taught at St. John Bosco’s College, where he handled various roles, including instruction in Arithmetic and History, religious and moral education, and housemaster duties. Despite a heavy workload, he pursued further education through postal tuition and ultimately gained admission to University College, Ibadan, graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, three months before Nigeria’s independence. Returning to teaching, Osigbemhe joined Western Boys’ High School and Government College, Ughelli, where he served as acting Vice Principal, introduced Economics to the curriculum, and contributed significantly to discipline and high academic standards. He later became a Senior Inspector and then Principal Inspector of Education for Benin Province, covering a broad region. His commitment to discipline and academic achievement earned him the position of Principal at Edo College in 1973, where he successfully restored order and standards amid challenging circumstances. In 1977, he was appointed Chief Inspector of Education, and shortly after, Sole Administrator/Chief Executive Officer of the Bendel State Health Services Management Board, where he resolved major administrative issues. Returning to education, he handled the demanding challenge of implementing free secondary education during a period of massive enrollment increases. His diligence and integrity led to his appointment as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education in 1980, despite being one of the most junior officers to achieve this rank. After 38 years in education, he retired in 1984. His service continued post-retirement as a community leader, Justice of the Peace, board member, Electoral Officer, and Civil Service Commissioner. In 1994, Osigbemhe was called by his community to serve as the traditional head (Okphe-Ukpi) of Ogbona, balancing this with his civil service work. Osigbemhe’s last traditional council meeting was in October 2008, and he passed away days later. He also served the Catholic Church as Grand Commander of the Catholic Evangelization Ministry. Remembered for his discipline, commitment to education, and community development, Chief Osigbemhe’s legacy endures.

HRH ALHAJI PATRICK AJAYI OBOAREKPE (JP), THE (OKPHE UKPI OF OGBONA 1955-1994 AND OGIEAVIANWU OF AVIANWU, 1986 – 2010) His Royal Highness, Alhaji P. A. Oboarekpe (JP), was born on November 18, 1922, into the Ogbona ruling house in Avianwu Clan. Born to peasant parents, he had humble beginnings. GENEALOGY AND PLACE OF BIRTH: He hailed from Ivhitse Quarter in Ogbona Sub-clan-head Zone of Avianwu Clan. His father, Oboarekpe, was the eldest son of Akpheokhai of Ivhitse, while his mother, Aghiegho Oboarekpe, was the eldest daughter of Agbayekhai, who hailed from Okotor Quarter of Iraokhor in Iraokhor Sub-clan-head Zone of Avianwu Clan, all in Etsako Central Local Government of Edo State. HRH Alhaji P. A. Oboarekpe was the fourth child of his father, who had a polygamous family. EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT: It was customary during those difficult early years of Western education in the country for only children who were less suited to farm work but gifted with intelligence to be encouraged to pursue formal education and to be sent to missionary schools. Patrick Ajayi Oboarekpe, as he was known at that time, was fortunate in this regard. He began his early primary education in 1937 at the then St. John’s Catholic School, Ogbona, now Oboarekpe Primary School, which was later named after him. He completed his studies and obtained the Standard Six School Leaving Certificate in 1945 at Sacred Heart Catholic School, Agenebode, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. In 1946, he was employed as a teacher and posted to St. Peter’s Catholic School, Afashio Uzairue, in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, under the Catholic Mission. He later proceeded to St. John Bosco College, Ubiaja, where he successfully obtained the Teacher’s Grade I Certificate in 1948. He worked assiduously as a classroom teacher and later as a headmaster. While in service, he introduced many innovative activities that attracted unwilling children and helped them develop a love for education. Through his untiring quest for the expansion of schools in Etsako, he assisted the missionaries in no small measure by opening schools in deep rural areas, where he personally accepted unpaid work in order to teach rural communities. He was also a sports enthusiast who won many laurels during the Empire Day Sports Meet organized under the auspices of the colonial administration. He was a sprinter, a distance runner, a footballer, and a local wrestler. CHIEFTAINCY CAREER: While still in service, and in recognition of his indomitable organizational ability, his love for corporate values, and his commitment to unity of purpose, he was recalled by his people to occupy the vacant stool in the leadership of Ogbona following the passing of the former Ukpi Drummer, Late Chief Pa Okozi, who was then the village head. In 1955, in response to the yearnings and aspirations of the people of Ogbona, he accepted the challenge and took over the reins of office in the community while still pursuing his teaching career. He later found the dual responsibility cumbersome and, in 1958, resigned from teaching in order to devote himself fully to governing the community more effectively. He was appointed a member of the Customary Court located at Fugar, where he served from 1967 to 1969. In 1984, following the passing of the former clan head, the Ogieavianwu of Avianwu, HRH Alhaji J. A. Alao (JP), and with Avianwu being a federated clan, the rotational royal sceptre fell on the domain of Ogbona. Thus, the mantle of leadership of the clan fell on him, and he became the next Ogieavianwu of Avianwu. He was gazetted to the throne as the Ogieavianwu of Avianwu on June 19, 1986, by the Edo State Government, a position he occupied until he was gloriously called to join his ancestors on February 27, 2010. ACHIEVEMENTS In the history of Avianwu Clan, he was the first Royal Highness to have four fully fledged subordinate clan heads in attendance at deliberations on issues affecting the clan. He created 117 villages to be manned by Ikhaemhos in the dispensation of grassroots justice, including three autonomous villages that were formed into a ruling house known as Ebadi Ruling House. He fought for the expansion of Avianwu into more viable villages and clans, to be headed by subordinate clan heads. During his reign, he endorsed and influenced the creation of Etsako Central Local Government Council, with headquarters at Fugar in Avianwu Kingdom, Edo State. EDUCATION His tenure witnessed giant strides in the educational sector, as many new schools were founded. The former St. John’s Grammar School was upgraded to a model unity school. He supported the establishment and completion of the Skills Acquisition Centre at Fugar. He witnessed the Federal Government’s extension of UBE schools within his domain. His reign also saw the founding of Afemai University and several other institutions. HEALTH During his reign, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital Comprehensive Health Centre was established at Ogbona. The General Hospital located at Fugar, along with many other primary healthcare centres, was established to care for the health of his subjects. SECURITY He was the first Ogieavianwu to organize a general congress on ways to avert security threats, with all security agencies in the area in attendance. During his reign, he imposed harsh penalties on those involved in riots, family feuds, carrying dangerous weapons on minor provocation, and assault of any kind. He stopped dusk-to-dawn night parties and ceremonies that posed threats to security in the community. SOCIAL LIFE AND LEGACY: Socially, he inspired the formation of progressive unions and became the first Ogieavianwu to visit each of his 170 villages, spreading messages of unity, harmony, and peaceful coexistence. His fairness in social justice, together with the honorable conferment of chieftaincy titles on outstanding citizens, fostered a spirit of pride and service among his people. Fondly remembered as a pioneer and builder, His Royal Highness left behind a legacy of honesty, courage, and compassion. He was a loving father and grandfather, deeply religious, and governed with a heart

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, OKOZI EBETO His Royal Highness, Okozi Ebeto, was born around the year 1876. He came from humble beginnings; his parents, Chief Ebeto and Madam Ekpesomhofia, were known as strict disciplinarians. He hailed from Ivhianaga, specifically Ivhiulagwua, in the Ivhiomhierele sub-section of Ogbona town—one of the sub-clan head zones in the Avhianwu Clan, located in the Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State. At that time, the best form of education parents could provide was through farm work and hunting skills. As the only surviving child of his parents, he was also raised with great care by his aunt and uncles, with whom he often stayed. Among these uncles were Chief Ikhadamo, Edigba, and Ughuokhor, sons of Chief Ukhokho. Edigba was the father of Esue and Apekhore, while Ughuokhor was the father of Osughie. In the traditional structure of Avhianwu, the position of Second-in-Command, or deputy king, known as Egboise, was held by Chief Ise of the same kindred. This development paved the way for Chief Okozi to be enthroned as the Ukpi drummer (Okpe-Ukpe) of Ogbona. Before long, Chief Okozi became widely recognized as a consulting agriculturist. Many in the community regarded him as a mentor and counselor. His rich orchard of cash crops—including kolanuts and pears—remains a source of livelihood for his descendants. A notable testament to his exceptional hunting skills was the discovery of a river around 1947, which he named River Ekhabade. He mobilized his subjects to create a road network to the river, located about five kilometers northeast of Ogbona. To this day, River Ekhabade remains one of the primary sources of drinking water for the community and its environs. Chieftaincy Affairs Chief Okozi’s chieftaincy career coincided with a period of administrative restructuring and stabilization in Ogbona. His two tenures were marked by significant political, economic, social, and traditional governance challenges. The chieftaincy institution in Ogbona had earlier been influenced by Islamic invaders in the mid-18th century and later by British colonists in the 19th century. Before British rule, governance revolved around the Ukpi Drum, a symbol of authority rotated between the two major sections of Ogbona: Ivhiokwa and Ivhiomhierele. However, the arrival of the British led to the termination of Nupe administration, the abolition of the slave trade, and the suspension of all traditional Ukpi holders due to their involvement in practices deemed inhumane. The British introduced a new political, social, and economic structure within Avhianwu and its surrounding communities. As part of their administrative strategy, the British appointed capable individuals from local communities to assist in governance. This ushered Chief Okozi Ebeto onto the royal stage. Between 1914 and 1931, the Warrant Chief system governed Etsako land. Having excelled in all required assessments and screenings, Chief Okozi was unanimously nominated by the Elders’ Council of Ogbona and honorably appointed by the British colonial authorities to succeed Chief Ikhumhetse Enekhumhe of Ivhiobore in 1920. His appointment was endorsed by Mr. E. V. Scalo, who succeeded Mr. Ingrido as the District Head at Auchi. This appointment brought unprecedented official recognition to Ogbona in Afenmai land. Chief Okozi’s leadership quickly gained the attention and respect of other Afenmai chiefs during administrative conferences in Auchi. He ruled with distinction from 1920 to 1931 as the third and final Warrant Chief. Although the era of indirect rule was historically characterized by dictatorial tendencies, Chief Okozi distinguished himself by refusing to implement oppressive colonial policies. His reign was marked by peace, harmony, and stability. Tax rates were reduced; there were no repeated demands for taxes already paid, and many elders were exempted from taxation altogether. Elders often highlighted the meaning of the name “Ebeto,” interpreting it as “a strictly sealed parcel”—a prophetic reference to his destiny and the dignity with which he led. His contemporaries included Chief Alemoh of Ivhiunone and Chief Akhenavianwu of Ivhiarua. Recognizing that the Warrant Chiefs lacked traditional legitimacy, the colonial administration eventually revoked all such appointments. Chief Aleghe of Ogbona became the only ruler appointed under the traditional Avhianwu chieftaincy structure thereafter. Subsequent traditional rulers appointed as Ikphe-Ikpi in Avhianwu included Chief Ayaosi of Ivhiunone, while Chief Imiegbe served as the senior Ukpi drummer and was the first to receive official recognition. It was the wish of Chief Okozi, the predecessor of Chief Oboarekpe, that he should be succeeded by a literate person. According to him, he was always “at sea” whenever he attended meetings with his colleagues. Upon Chief Okozi’s demise, protocols and traditions were broken, and a literate chief, in the person of Chief Oboarekpe, was brought in. The community unanimously agreed that they needed someone who was literate enough to be Okpe-Ukpi, for better positioning and to avoid being sidelined in communal development. Hence, Patrick Oboarekpe was recalled from his posting as a teacher. However, Ikhanoba objected to being substituted. We were reliably informed that Ogbona was supposed to be an administrative headquarters, but during one voting process for the Okpe-Ukpi, our representative, Chief Okozi, ignorantly “sold out” when he said he “concurred,” not knowing the implications because he was not educated. He regretted this and vowed that subsequent Okpe-Ukpis must be educated. Today, this move looks visionary. By prioritizing literacy, Ogbona essentially armed itself. They moved from a position of being “sidelined” to a position where they could finally read the map and help drive the car. It turned the Chief’s palace from a place of mere ceremony into a diplomatic outpost. It’s a powerful testament to the idea that culture is a living thing. It has to breathe and adapt, or it risks being “concurred” into or out of existence by people who don’t have its best interests at heart. The Lineage of Okozi Ibeto At the root of this distinguished lineage stands Okozi Ibeto (1.0), the patriarch whose descendants formed a wide and enduring family network. From his eight wives sprang many children whose descendants continued to shape the family story across generations. The Ibeto lineage is made up of several interconnected houses, each