They succeeded in forming a coalition with his fellow Christian lords of Gojjam, Lasta and Semien against Ras Marye.

Wube then married Dinqinesh, the daughter of Dejazmach Sabgadis, to foster an alliance against Yimam's successor, Ras Marye Gugsa.

Sabagadis recognized Wube's half brother and rival Merso Haile Maryam as the governor of Semien before his return to Tigray.

Although Sabagadis had the superiority of a far larger number of firearms, his matchlockmen were poorly employed and failed to overcome the vaunted Oromo cavalry.

He spared Sabagadis's sons (his wife Dinqinesh's brothers) and appointed them as tributary provincial governors in return for their submission.