HISTORY TODAY: THE TRAGIC STORY OF ADESUWA AND THE OBI OF UBULU-UKU
In the ancient Benin kingdom, during the reign of Oba Akengbuda in 1752, there lived a beautiful princess named Adesuwa. She was the daughter of Ezomo N'Uzebu and renowned for her unparalleled beauty and hard work regardless of her father's wealth.
Adesuwa was betrothed to Oba Akengbuda, but fate had other plans. One day, the newly installed Obi of Ubulu-Uku, Obi Olise, visited Benin to pay homage to the Oba. While at the palace of Ezomo N'Uzebu, the beautiful Adesuwa came to serve him kolanut and he was captivated by her beauty.
Obi Olise devised a plan to add Adesuwa to his harem. He purchased goats from her, promising to pay later, but reneged on his promise. Using sorcery, he manipulated Adesuwa into traveling to Ubulu-Uku to collect payment.
Despite warnings, Adesuwa arrived at Ubulu-Uku, where Obi Olise proposed marriage. Insulted, Adesuwa verbally abused Obi Olise, prompting him to behead her in a fit of rage.
The maid accompanying Adesuwa escaped to Benin, informing the kingdom of the princess's gruesome murder. Oba Akengbuda mobilized his armies, led by Imaran Adiagbon and Enogie Emokpaogbe, to avenge Adesuwa's death.
After intense battles, Ubulu-Uku was captured, and Obi Olise's head was brought to Benin.
Interestingly, this incident led to a lasting change in the Benin kingdom's customs. To this day, women are prohibited from carrying kolanuts to welcome visitors or during events, a tradition that stands as a testament to Adesuwa's tragic fate.
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ReplyDeleteGreat story... Alot to learn from history.. 👍 Good job
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DeleteI think I have heard something like this before but never knew it was Adesuwa. Thanks for the write up. Pat Ehondor
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