Location | Ring Road, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria |
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Coordinates | 6°20′26″N5°37′22″E / 6.3406°N 5.6227°E |
Opening date | 15th century |
Number of tenants | Over 5,000 |
Total retail floor area | Approximately 20 acres |
The Oba Market (also referred to as Edo : Eki-Oba) is an open-air market situated at Ring Road in the center of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. [1] Its roots date back to the 15th century, making it one of the most historically significant markets in the region. [2]
The history of Oba Market reaches back to the 15th century when commerce thrived at this location. [3] Over centuries, it has served as a pivotal trading center within the Benin Kingdom, evolving in tandem with the city. [4] [5]
One prominent figure associated with Oba Market is Emotan, also known as Uwarraye. [6] In the 15th century, during the reigns of Oba Uwaifiokun and Oba Ewuare the Great, Emotan was a respected market woman celebrated for her humanitarian work and dedication to children. [7] [8] Importantly, she played a key role during Prince Ogun's (Oba Ewuare I) quest to reclaim his throne after a period of exile. [9] [8]
Emotan and Prince Ogun conspired to overthrow the usurper, Oba Uwaifiokun. Emotan's astuteness played a crucial role in Prince Ogun's successful return to the throne. [8] [10] She provided sanctuary for him within her modest dwelling in Oba Market, becoming his trusted informant as Uwaifiokun sought to eliminate him to retain power. [11] [8]
Upon Emotan's passing, Oba Ewuare the Great decreed that she should be forever remembered. [12] To honor this decree, he deified her by planting a sacred Uruhe tree at her resting place, which was the same location where she had resided adjacent to Oba Market. [13] [14]
Oba Market is renowned for its extensive array of products, encompassing food items, clothing, fabrics, traditional beads, jewellery, and electronics. [15] The market serves as a comprehensive source for daily necessities and cultural artifacts. [16] [17]
A prominent landmark at Oba Market is the Emotan statue and shrine, positioned directly opposite the market. [18] This statue commemorates Emotan's pivotal role in Benin Kingdom history. [19] [20] [21]
In recent years, concerted efforts have been made to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Oba Market, particularly the Emotan shrine. [22] These initiatives aim to ensure that the market's significance is passed down to future generations and that Emotan's contributions are remembered and celebrated. [23] [24]
In 2020, Oba Market encountered a formidable challenge as a fierce fire engulfed the market, resulting in extensive destruction. [25] [26] The incident, which took place on 22 June 2020, generated considerable concern and brought into focus the market's susceptibility due to its historical significance. [27] [28]