Benin Empire vs Igbo Nation: Clearing Historical Confusion

Fellow Naijaworlders, the debate over the Benin-Igbo link has spawned many threads and much confusion. Let’s lay out the core facts without insults. First, Benin Kingdom, Igbo Nation and modern Edo State are distinct. Benin Kingdom was an empire from 1180 to 1897. Igbo Nation centers on Nri-Awka-Orlu from 900 AD. Edo State is a federal unit created in 1991. Only a few Igbo royals trace their origin to Benin. Onitsha and Enuani dynasties were founded by a Benin prince in the 16th century. Igbanke in Edo State speaks Igbo but crowns its king with Benin regalia. Ninety-eight percent of Igbos trace their roots to Nri/Eri. Both Edo and Igbo cultures are ancient and independent. The Benin Bronzes case is about artifacts looted from the Oba’s Palace in 1897, not Igbo lands. Let’s focus on facts and the effort to return the bronzes. Drop your counter-facts below.

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