The Oba Market (also referred to as Edo: Eki-Oba) is an open-air market situated at Ring Road in the center of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.[1] Its roots date back to the 15th century, making it one of the most historically significant markets in the region.[2]

History

Establishment

The history of Oba Market reaches back to the 15th century when commerce thrived at this location.[3] Over centuries, it has served as a pivotal trading center within the Benin Kingdom, evolving in tandem with the city.[4][5]

Role of Emotan

One prominent figure associated with Oba Market is Emotan, also known as Uwarraye.[6] In the 15th century, during the reigns of Oba Uwaifiokun and Oba Ewuare the Great, Emotan was a respected market woman celebrated for her humanitarian work and dedication to children.[7][8] Importantly, she played a key role during Prince Ogun's (Oba Ewuare I) quest to reclaim his throne after a period of exile.[9][8]

Emotan and Prince Ogun conspired to overthrow the usurper, Oba Uwaifiokun. Emotan's astuteness played a crucial role in Prince Ogun's successful return to the throne.[8][10] She provided sanctuary for him within her modest dwelling in Oba Market, becoming his trusted informant as Uwaifiokun sought to eliminate him to retain power.[11][8]

Upon Emotan's passing, Oba Ewuare the Great decreed that she should be forever remembered.[12] To honor this decree, he deified her by planting a sacred Uruhe tree at her resting place, which was the same location where she had resided adjacent to Oba Market.[13][14]

Features

Diverse range of goods

Oba Market is renowned for its extensive array of products, encompassing food items, clothing, fabrics, traditional beads, jewellery, and electronics.[15] The market serves as a comprehensive source for daily necessities and cultural artifacts.[16][17]

Emotan statue and shrine

Main article: Emotan Statue

A prominent landmark at Oba Market is the Emotan statue and shrine, positioned directly opposite the market.[18] This statue commemorates Emotan's pivotal role in Benin Kingdom history.[19][20][21]

Preservation efforts

In recent years, concerted efforts have been made to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Oba Market, particularly the Emotan shrine.[22] These initiatives aim to ensure that the market's significance is passed down to future generations and that Emotan's contributions are remembered and celebrated.[23][24]

2020 fire incident

In 2020, Oba Market encountered a formidable challenge as a fierce fire engulfed the market, resulting in extensive destruction.[25][26] The incident, which took place on 22 June 2020, generated considerable concern and brought into focus the market's susceptibility due to its historical significance.[27][28]

References

  1. ^ Egharevba, Jacob U. (1953). The Origin of Benin. B.D.N.A. Museum.
  2. ^ Eguavoen, Festus (2019-08-10). Emotan. ISBN 978-1-0993-6964-3.
  3. ^ Ogbeifun, Nowamagbe P. R. I. N. C. E. (2021-01-01). "Assessment of Noise Pollution in Oba Market, New Benin Market & Oregbeni Market, Benin City, Edo State Ogbeifun, Nowamagbe Prince 1 and Njokede, Fortune .O. 2". Nigerian Institution of Professional Engineers and Scientist.
  4. ^ Zeijl, Femke van. "The Oba of Benin Kingdom: A history of the monarchy". Aljazeera.com. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  5. ^ Edo State of Nigeria: A Guide : Inside One Year of Edo State Pictorial: Special Attractions. Eribo. 1997.
  6. ^ "Nigerian women across various tribes have been recognized". RefinedNG. 2021-03-06. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  7. ^ "THE BENIN MONARCHY: An Anthology of Benin History(CASED)". Quintessence. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  8. ^ a b c d "EMOTAN: QUEEN OF EKIOBA". www.edoworld.net. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  9. ^ Board, Benin Traditional Council Editorial (2018). The Benin Monarchy: An Anthology of Benin History. WELLS CRIMSON. ISBN 978-978-54734-1-4.
  10. ^ Aisien, Ekhaguosa (2001). The Benin City Pilgrimage Stations. Aisien Publishers. ISBN 978-978-31533-5-6.
  11. ^ Igbafe, Philip A. (July 1970). "The fall of benin: A Reassessment". The Journal of African History. 11 (3): 385–400. doi:10.1017/S0021853700010215. ISSN 1469-5138.
  12. ^ "Head of an Oba | Edo peoples". The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  13. ^ "The Kingdom of Benin (article) | Nigeria". Khan Academy. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  14. ^ The Calgary Herald. The Calgary Herald.
  15. ^ Mason, Paul (2015-09-10). Daily Life in Ancient Benin. Raintree Publishers. ISBN 978-1-4062-9849-9.
  16. ^ "Traders Seek Oba of Benin's Intervention in Planned Markets' Demolition by State Govt - THISDAYLIVE". www.thisdaylive.com. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  17. ^ Egharevba, Jacob U. (1949). Benin Law and Custom. Niger Press.
  18. ^ Onakoya, Tolu (2021-03-25). "10 great markets to explore in Edo". Culture Intelligence from RED. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  19. ^ Ezedinma, Chuma; Sanni, L. O.; Okechukwu, Richardson U. (2007). Socioeconomic Studies on Selected Cassava Markets in Nigeria. IITA. ISBN 978-978-131-276-2.
  20. ^ "The Kingdom of Benin". education.nationalgeographic.org. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  21. ^ Omoregie, S. B. (1972). Emotan and the Kings of Benin. Longman. ISBN 978-0-582-60925-9.
  22. ^ Salami-Agunloye, Irene Isoken (2001). Emotan (a Benin Heroine). Mazlink Nigeria Limited. ISBN 978-978-35644-3-5.
  23. ^ Meriden Journal. Meriden Journal.
  24. ^ Lawrence Journal-World. Lawrence Journal-World.
  25. ^ "Oba Market In Benin Gutted By Fire | Sahara Reporters". saharareporters.com. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  26. ^ "Early morning fire consumes part of Oba Market, Benin". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. 2020-06-22. Retrieved 2023-10-10.
  27. ^ Momoh, Idris Umar (2020-06-24). "We lost all in Oba Market fire, traders lament". Businessday NG. Retrieved 2023-09-05.
  28. ^ Ajibola, Akinola (22 June 2020). "Fire Guts Section Of Oba Market In Edo". Channels Television. Retrieved 5 September 2023.
Allikas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oba_Market
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