Story Of The Market Woman Who Saved A Benin King From Being Murdered
The tale of Emotan, a historical figure revered in Benin City, is a fascinating blend of resilience, love, and dedication. Born Uwaraye, she lived a life that has left an indelible mark on the history and culture of the Benin Kingdom.
As a young woman, Uwaraye became the second wife of Chief Azama from the Ihogbe district. Her early years in her marital home were challenging, as she was deemed incompetent by her husband for her inability to cook or bear children. The first wife, Arabe, managed all domestic duties and gave birth to all the household’ s children. Due to her perceived inadequacies, Uwaraye earned the nickname ” Emotan, ” meaning ” lazy bones. ”
However, Emotan possessed a redeeming trait— she was exceptional at caring for children. This innate ability would later define her legacy. To sustain herself, Emotan utilized her skills in making *evbarie* (a fermented melon seed condiment) and spinning cotton threads. She began selling these products alongside herbal goods at a market stall in what is now known as Oba Market.
After her husband’ s death, Emotan faced hardship. With no family to turn to, she built a modest hut near her market stall, opposite the marketplace. Over time, her hut became more than just her residence; it transformed into a haven for children. Market patrons would leave their children under Emotan’ s care while they conducted their business. Emotan selflessly nurtured the children, attending to their health and other needs without expecting any payment.
This act of kindness earned her a special place in the hearts of many, and historians often credit her as the pioneer of childcare services in Benin City.
During this period, the Benin Kingdom was embroiled in a royal conflict. Prince Uwaifiokun had usurped the throne, denying his elder brother, Prince Ogun, his rightful place as king. Forced into exile, Prince Ogun made clandestine visits to Benin to gather support.
On one such visit, he sought refuge in Emotan’ s hut. Despite the dangers, Emotan, known for her courage and mysticism, sheltered the prince. She also provided him with vital support to reclaim his throne. Her bravery was evident when she hid Ogun from Uwaifiokun’ s soldiers, ensuring his safety as he prepared to challenge his brother.
Emotan’ s unwavering loyalty and strategic assistance proved pivotal. She warned Ogun about untrustworthy chiefs and even sent word encouraging him to solidify his position after he successfully reclaimed the throne by defeating Uwaifiokun.
With Emotan’ s help and the support of loyal subjects, Prince Ogun ascended the throne as Oba Ewuare I, one of Benin’ s greatest kings. His reign marked a period of restoration and peace, symbolized by his title, *Oworuare*, meaning ” the cooling effect of rain after heat. ”
In recognition of her contributions, Oba Ewuare appointed Emotan as the *Iyeki* (leader of the Ekpate guards), granting her authority over market security and regulations. Her leadership further cemented her reputation as a symbol of justice and fairness.
Not long after Oba Ewuare’ s ascension, Emotan passed away. The king decreed that she be buried in her hut, a testament to her significance in the community. To honor her memory, an *Uruhe* tree was planted at her burial site, symbolizing her deification as the ” conscience of justice. ” This tree stood for three centuries before being replaced by another, which survived for 150 years. Eventually, an iroko tree was planted to preserve the sacred site, but it too fell during a storm.
In 1950, Oba Akenzua II, in collaboration with the British colonial authorities, commissioned a life- sized bronze statue of Emotan as a young woman. This statue stands proudly in Benin City, serving as a reminder of her impact on the community.
Emotan’ s story is not just about her selflessness and bravery; it reflects the strength of a woman who overcame societal challenges to leave an enduring legacy. To this day, her burial site is a focal point during celebratory processions in Benin City, with homage paid to the woman who epitomized justice, care, and resilience.
Her life serves as an inspiration, highlighting how acts of kindness and courage can shape history and leave a legacy that resonates through generations. Emotan’ s transformation from ” lazy bones” to a revered figure is a testament to the power of determination and empathy.
