However, his early rule faced resistance, with key figures and the general populace of Benin distancing themselves from palace activities and ceasing to provide necessary support for its operations.

This led Ewuakpe to depart from Benin City and reside in Ikoka, the village of his mother, where he experienced additional adversity and engaged in humble tasks.

A significant shift occurred when Iden, his spouse, consented to a ritual sacrifice to the gods, which resulted in the restoration of Ewuakpe's authority.

[1] Their absence from palace gatherings and refusal to provide essential services necessitated Ewuakpe's retreat to Ikoka, his mother's village.

[1] A critical turn of events occurred when Iden, his wife, agreed to be sacrificed to the gods, an act that resulted in the restoration of Ewuakpe's rule.

[2] The period also marked the beginning of hereditary titles for official positions, adjusting the balance of power between the Oba and the high chiefs.

[1] He implemented a succession law that established the right of the firstborn son to succeed the throne, a practice that persists in the Benin constitution.