Intense Rift Between Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi and Acting Consul James Robert Phillips in 1897
An important annual celebration in Benin is the Igue festival. The beginning of it was some time ago, in 1443. One of the establishments that Oba Ewuare the Great introduced. With this event, one year comes to an end and a new one begins. It’s the Beninese people’s season of thanksgiving. Many rites and customs must be followed throughout the festival in order to prepare the entire Kingdom for the frightful time. People get together to pay their respects to the Oba and express their appreciation to the gods for providing for and preserving them. They give the Oba peace leaves, dance, sing, and carry out ceremonies. Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi refused Acting Consul James Robert Phillips’ request to visit in November 1896. Since the visit fell during the holy month of the Igue Festival, which held great significance for both the kingdom and him, he requested a two-month postponement. However, Phillips disregarded the advice and attempted to enter Benin on January 4, 1897. This was interpreted as an affront to the Oba and an invasion. An ambush caught Phillips and his company in Ugbine hamlet, close to Gwato. This incident precipitated the historic Punitive Expedition of February 1897, during which Benin was invaded and numerous priceless, holy, and religious artifacts were taken from the Oba’s Palace. But today, the Oba Akenzua II organizes a number of additional festivals in addition to the Igue festival. This is because he wanted the event to stretch a few days because of the way people are currently traveling and since the Igue festival has evolved into a hub for numerous other Benin celebrations.