Ehengbuda

Ehengbuda (a.k.a. Edo: Ehengbuda N'Obo, lit. 'Ehengbuda the Physician') was the eighteenth Oba of the Benin Empire, reigning from approximately c. 1578 – c. 1606. He succeeded his father, Orhogbua, and maintained Benin's influence through warfare and diplomacy. His reign included military engagements against neighbouring powers such as the Oyo Empire, resulting in a treaty that established the Benin-Oyo frontier at Otun in present-day Ekiti State. Ehengbuda also asserted Benin's control over vassal Yoruba states such as Owo, where the local ruler was required to continue paying tribute to the Oba. Though contact with Europeans persisted during his reign, claims of diplomatic exchanges—such as the gift of a telescope—lack independent verification. His rule is considered the end of the era of warrior kings in Benin, with military leadership subsequently delegated to high-ranking chiefs.