Quote from Quwamdeen Durojaiye on January 6, 2023, 10:22 am

Warriors at the gate

 

Ancient Benin Empire was one of the oldest and most highly developed states in the coastal hinterland of West Africa. The empire offers a snapshot of a well-organized and sophisticated African polity in operation before the major European colonial influence.��Benin Empire rose to the height of its glory thanks to the contributions and sacrifices made by some outstanding men, women, leaders and warlords. Most of them went as far as laying down their lives for the advancement of the kingdom.

The lives and deeds of some outstanding warriors of the ancient Benin empire.

General Asoro is one remarkable historical figure Benin Kingdom will not forget in a hurry. He led other warriors in resisting the entry of British invaders in 1897 into Benin City.��His statement "no other person dare pass this road except the Oba" (So kpon Oba) was later translated to "SAKPONBA", the name of a well-known road in Benin. To commemorate his contribution, his statue was erected at what is now Oba Ovonramwen Square, at the beginning of Sakponba Road, Benin City. According to tradition, that was the very spot Chief Asoro died.

Chief Obasogie is another outstanding Benin warrior of old who defended the kingdom against external invasion. He gallantly resisted the British from invading Benin Kingdom during the punitive expedition.

Chief Obasogie was not just a warrior; he was also a blacksmith and sculptor. Most of his designs and works can be found in and around the city. The architectural design of Chief Obasogie's house which sits magnificently opposite the entrance of Igun Street leaves much to say about this warlord.

Words from The Centenary Project.