Introduction

The history of the Ekpesa Kingdom dates back to approximately 1200 AD (13th century). During this period, the ancient Igodomigodo Kingdom—now known as the Benin Kingdom in present-day Edo State—sought the assistance of Oranmiyan, grandson of Oduduwa of Ile-Ife, in its struggle against the Ogisos (Onogies).

Oranmiyan’s entourage included four brothers — Ekpesa, Onumu, Somorika and Ojirami — who later settled in the Okpameri region and founded communities that remain today.

The Arrival of Oranmiyan & Journey to Okpameri

The Arrival of Oranmiyan in Igodomigodo

Upon landing in Igodomigodo, Oranmiyan recognized the land and proclaimed “Ibiyini” (“this is the place” in Yoruba). He defeated the Ogisos, married a woman from the kingdom, and fathered Eweka — later enthroned as Eweka I. By 1295 AD Oranmiyan returned to Ile-Ife after a recall; Eweka I continued the dynasty in Benin.

The Journey to Okpameri Land

The four brothers chose not to return to Ile-Ife. They traveled from Benin into modern-day Akoko-Edo and named their settlement Akpie-Ekpesa. Local meanings:

  • Akpei — “we are one”
  • Okpameri — “we are one people”
  • Ekpesa — “we forbid curses”

Separation During the Nupe War

In the 1500s (16th century) the Nupe invasion spread into the area. To survive, the brothers separated:

Onumu — settled in rocky surroundings.

Somorika — moved up the mountains and into caves.

Ojirami — crossed beyond the rivers.

Ekpesa — retreated deeper into the forest (descendants remain there).

Before they parted they swore a sacred oath that no bloodshed or warfare should ever erupt among their descendant communities — an oath honoured to the present day.

Kingship in Ekpesa

Ekpesa is located on fertile flat land, ideal for farming. Historically there have been nine successive kings with seven recognized by preserved oral history after the Nupe War:

  1. Uzenosenimi
  2. Ugba
  3. Ekpedugere I
  4. Ijemebor
  5. Aigboje
  6. Ekpedugere II
  7. Ekpedugere III

The current king is the 7th recognized and reigning OBA of Ekpesa.

Royal Titles

The monarch is titled OBA or Okpashi. Succession protocol includes:

  • Daudu — first son (Crown Prince)
  • Dania — second son (second in line)
  • Deji — third son
  • The first daughter serves as Regent in the queen's absence

Structure of the Ekpesa Community

Ekpesa is divided into three quarters:

  • Ekulezu Quarters
  • Ubianagba Quarters
  • Ayanva Quarters

Each quarter maintains a leadership triad:

  • Desi — Quarter Head
  • Orina — Cultural Head
  • Orio — Traditional Head

The Orinas and Orios are kingmakers, guided by the Desi. There are currently 47 titled chiefs (Ojas) and one surviving Ekala Chief. The OBA may create, confer, suspend, or remove titles as required.

Governance & Authority

Ekpesa has a recognized Chairman (Mayor) handling civil administration, while the OBA retains supreme traditional authority including:

  • Approving or suspending titled individuals
  • Regulating religious and community organizations
  • Approving cultural festivals and rites
  • Enforcing banishment for betrayal or misconduct

All associations operating as "Ekpesa" (including diaspora unions) are required to send quarterly reports to the palace.

Peace, Land & Security

Ekpesa welcomes law-abiding settlers and visitors. However:

  • Attempts to undermine the OBA’s authority may result in banishment.
  • Any attempt to cede Ekpesa land without the OBA’s approval is treasonous.

Okpameri — The Land & Its People

Okpameri means "We are one." It comprises 22 culturally connected communities that share language and customs across the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.

The region features rolling hills, rocky landscapes and fertile plains — including the historic Kukuruku Hills. According to the 2006 census the Akoko-Edo population was recorded as 261,567, with Okpameri people forming the majority.

Communities (Selected list)

  • Aiyegunle (Osi)
  • Lampese
  • Bekuma
  • Makeke (Umanukeke)
  • Dagbala
  • Ogbe
  • Ekor
  • Ogugu
  • Ekpe
  • Ojah (Oza)
  • Ekpesa
  • Ojirami
  • Eshawa
  • Somorika
  • Sasaro
  • Ibillo
  • Ugboshi-Afe
  • Ugboshi-Ele (Ayanmi)
  • Ikiran-Ile (Afeyeh)
  • Ikiran-Oke (Ebune)
  • Onumu
  • Imoga (Uma)
  • …plus other Okpameri communities

Geographical Setting

Akoko-Edo lies within longitudes 4º55′–5º45′E and latitudes 5º45′–6º35′N. It borders:

  • Ondo State to the west
  • Kogi State to the north
  • Owan East and Etsako West (Edo State) to the south and east

The landscape includes rocky hills, high ridges and fertile plains suitable for yam, cassava and grain cultivation. Vegetation is orchard-bush type and thicker in the south near the Onyami River and tributaries.

Location of Ekpesa Kingdom

📍 Ekpesa Kingdom Location

Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria

Coordinates: 5.8°N, 5.2°E (Approximate)

Source: A History and Culture of the Okpameri since Pre-Colonial Times.