Esigie (also spelt Oseigie), originally known as Osawe, was the son of Oba Ozolua, who reigned in the late 15th century, and his second wife, Queen Idia.

[3][4] Following a bitter power struggle with Arhuaran, and with major assistance and support from his mother Idia, Esigie gathered the Benin army at Unuame on the river Osse and from there launched an attack and overthrew Arhuanran.

[14] Oba Esigie expanded Benin's territories through successful military campaigns, notably defeating the Igala in the north in 1516 without relying on Portuguese arms.

He also reformed the Benin army, introducing new military tactics and weapons, such as firearms, which were acquired through trade with European nations.

His reign marked the beginning of Benin's rise as a major power in West Africa, and his cultural achievements continue to inspire artists and scholars around the world.