Oba Ovonramwen

Led the Benin Kingdom's resistance against British colonial aggression in West Africa

Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi (c. 1852–1914) was the last Oba (king) of the ancient Benin Kingdom in present-day Nigeria. Ascending to power in 1888, he faced relentless British encroachment during the Scramble for Africa. The British sought control over Benin's lucrative trade networks and its famed bronze artworks. Ovonramwen resisted through diplomacy and military action, famously ordering the 1897 ambush that killed British explorers including James Phillips. This sparked the Benin Expedition, where British forces looted over 3,000 artifacts (now held in global museums like the British Museum). Ovonramwen was captured, exiled, and died in captivity. His resistance symbolizes African sovereignty against imperialism. Modern efforts like the Benin Dialogue Group continue his legacy. Explore his story in The Benin Kingdom and the Edo People or visit Benin Bronze Project for restitution advocacy.