Ewuare

Ewuare was the twelfth Oba ('king') of the Kingdom of Benin. He was born Ogun, a son of Ohen, and spent part of his early life away from Benin City. He took the throne after killing his brother Uwaifiokun and assumed the regnal name Ewuare. Edo traditions connect his birth and youth with the Ekoko n'Utẹ, a palace masquerade performance involving masked dancers, and with the market woman Emotan and conflicts involving the Ogiamiẹn lineage. Ewuare rebuilt and enlarged Benin City, extended its walls and ditches, and reorganised the kingdom's government. He strengthened offices directly connected to the Oba and is linked with the introduction of lineal succession through the title Edaiken. His reign is also associated with the organisation of palace departments, service wards, and institutions.