Sim :
Exactly what he said. Esan did not betray Benin. The history was more about resisting royal power, moving to new places, and wanting to live freely.
According to the traditional story, the problem started during the reign of Oba Ewuare the Great after the death of his two sons. The Oba was very sad and brought very strict mourning rules. For three years, people were not allowed to cook, wash, or have sex. (Na why we like sex for Esan 🤣 we disappear)
Many families found these rules too difficult. Instead of following the rules, some people left the Benin area and moved into nearby forests and other places. In Benin tradition, their leaving was described as “Ele san fia,” which is often understood to mean “they have fled.” The name Esan is said to have come from this expression.
This story shows that the Esan people did not simply betray Benin. Their movement was a reaction to strict royal control. (We too stubborn 🤣) They wanted to protect their families, way of life, traditions, and freedom.
So, saying that the Esan “betrayed Benin” is too simple. Leaving an empire or resisting its authority does not automatically mean betrayal.
Esan identity grew from the historical world of Benin, but it was also shaped by resistance to strong central authority and the desire for self-rule. Esan oye….
2026-08-27 07:47:58