The origins of this conflict can be traced to the complex history of the region, with Akure being a place of ancient settlements, some dating back to the early Ife kingdom.

The Akure Kingdom emerged when these communities were consolidated under the rule of Prince Omoremilekun, who descended from Oduduwa, a revered figure in Yoruba history.

In contrast, for Benin, the war demonstrated its power and expanded its territorial influence, with the Oba amassing greater wealth through tribute and plunder.

The conflict had a lasting impact on the history and culture of both Akure and Benin, commemorated through various means, including oral traditions, festivals, monuments, and art.

The Akure Kingdom, with its origins linked to the revered figure of Oduduwa, was established by Omoremilekun, a prince from Ile-Ife and a skilled elephant hunter.

Chief Osague, an esteemed member from the Iwebo Chancellery of the Benin Palace, was dispatched to Akure in 1818 with the Chalk of Good Tidings, signifying Oba Osemwende's ascension in 1816.

[9] Concurrently, a Benin merchant named Ogonto was assaulted in Akure's market, sparking riots that led to the death of several Bini individuals.

[8] A dispute later arose in Akure between one of Chief Osague's wives and a local tobacco seller, a conflict Arakale had incited, which escalated into a brawl.

[22] They took numerous captives and seized cattle and valuables, imposing a heavy annual tribute on Akure, consisting of three slaves, as well as ivories and corals, all payable to the Oba of Benin.

[29] The victory in the war was bolstered by additional support from allied forces, including troops and supplies from the Ikerres in eastern Yorubaland and the Esan chiefdom of Irrua.

[8] Following Akure's reconquest, the Benin army's leading commanders, Imadiyi and Oyodo, established a strategic base at Otun, facilitating further military operations in the Ekiti region and other eastern Yorubaland areas.

[31][29] Their conquests brought numerous towns and chiefdoms under Benin's sway, compelling Ekiti princes to acknowledge the Oba's imperial authority through annual tributes.