The Legacy of Obi Okafor and Eze Chima

In 1905, Obi Okafor, the 17th Obi (king) of the great Issele-uku Oligbo kingdom, was photographed by Christian missionaries. This image, preserved in the palace archives, represents a significant figure in the lineage of Eze Chima, a prominent leader in western Igbo history.

Eze Chima: A Historical Figure from the 16th Century

Eze Chima was an influential Igbo leader from Benin City in the 16th century. His story begins with a notable conflict with Oba Esigie, the ruler of Benin from 1504 to 1550. This disagreement led to a significant eastward migration led by Eze Chima. The group, primarily composed of Igbo migrants and some Edo people, moved unarmed towards western Igbo territories, establishing and influencing numerous communities along their path.

Migration and Establishment of New Communities

The migration led by Eze Chima had a profound impact on the western Igbo region. The migrants integrated with the local Igbo communities, contributing to the cultural and social landscape. Notably, they established several towns, one of the most significant being Onicha (Onitsha), initially known as Onicha Mmili. This city became a central hub for the Igbo people on the eastern banks of the Niger River.

Hostilities and Queen Mother Idia’s Influence

The hostility from Benin towards Eze Chima and his followers can be partially attributed to the powerful Queen Mother Idia, mother of Oba Esigie. Idia wielded considerable influence in Benin’s political and military affairs. During her son’s reign, she played a pivotal role in the kingdom’s conflicts, including wars with neighboring states like Idah, the capital of the Igala people.

Queen Mother Idia’s policies might have included reclaiming lands leased to non-Bini peoples. This likely intensified the tensions leading to the migration of Eze Chima and his followers. The general climate of hostility towards foreigners in Benin, exacerbated by ongoing wars, forced the migrants to seek refuge and establish new communities in the more welcoming Igbo territories.

Integration and Legacy

As the migrants settled in various Igbo communities, they were absorbed into the local populations. Eze Chima, despite his leadership and vision, did not reach Onicha before his death. He spent his final days in the town of Obio. Nevertheless, his legacy lived on through his descendants, known as Umu Eze Chima (the children of Eze Chima). These descendants played significant roles in the communities established during the migration, perpetuating the cultural and historical influence of their ancestor.

Obi Okafor: A Symbol of Continuity

The photograph of Obi Okafor in 1905 is more than just an image; it is a symbol of the enduring legacy of Eze Chima’s lineage. As the 17th Obi of the Issele-uku Oligbo kingdom, Obi Okafor’s reign connects the historical migration and establishment of communities by Eze Chima to the continued leadership and cultural significance of his descendants in the 20th century.

Conclusion

The story of Eze Chima is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Igbo people. From the conflict in Benin City to the establishment of influential communities in western Igbo territories, Eze Chima’s leadership and vision had a lasting impact. His descendants, including notable figures like Obi Okafor, continue to uphold his legacy, illustrating the deep historical roots and cultural continuity within the Igbo communities. This legacy is a reminder of the significant contributions of Eze Chima and his followers to the cultural and social fabric of the Igbo people.