Thread by @AfricanHub_

Queen Idia: The Fearless Warrior and First Iyoba of Benin Kingdom.

Born in the 15th century in Uzeghudu (now Edo State), Queen Idia was married to Oba Ozolua and her son, Osawe, was crowned Oba of Benin Kingdom with the title “Esigie” (Oseigie) and he reigned

from 1504-1550 A.D. The Egua-Iy’Oba (The Queen Mother’s Palace) was built for her in lower Uselu, and it still serves as the final resting place for every Iy’Oba (Queen Mother). Queen Idia was a remarkable woman who enjoyed the privilege of recommending her choice of Chiefs

to the Oba, who then conferred the title on them. She was the first woman to go to and fight in war, and she used her magical powers and knowledge of medicine to help her son overcome his enemies. She was a fearless Army General who led the Armies of Benin on several

successful battles. One of such was the Idah War of 1515 – 1516 A.D., which was won by her Army who fought bravely. She also acted as the Oba’s Agent in some Villages. Several symbolic images of art identified with Queen Idia indicate her early contacts with the Portuguese

and have become some of the most popular works of art in world black history. These include the Bronze ancestral Queen-Mother Head, the Bronze Bells, the traditional Sword (“Eben”), the carved wood rattle Staff (“Ukhurhe”), and many more.

The image of Queen Idia is the popular Festac Head that was used for the celebration of the Nigerian FESTAC ’77 – Festival of Arts and Culture in 1977 that was attended by dignitaries all over the world. Queen Idia also started “Ekasa” – a special dance which forms part

of the Royal Ceremonies till date. Queen Idia’s tomb is located at Egua-Iy’oba, Uselu, Lagos Road, Benin-City. She played a significant role in the rise and reign of her son, Oba Esigie,

and was the first Iyoba (Queen Mother) of Benin when Esigie conferred upon her the title and the Eguae-Iyoba (Palace of the Queen Mother).

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