However, historical records indicate his royal lineage within the Benin Kingdom, and he ascended to the throne following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Akengbuda.
In a shocking turn of events, Obanosa ordered the public execution of his own mother, Iyoba Ose, by stoning, using moulded bricks of esorhue, 'sea chalk'.
Obanosa's reign left an impact on Benin's history, characterised by conflicts, power struggles, and the influence of the Eniwanren-Aso witches coven.
[7] The two young men, though not related by blood, shared a striking resemblance in both age and appearance, which added an intriguing dimension to their rivalry.
[8][9][10] Before ascending the throne, Prince Osifo made repeated public threats against Osopakharha, vowing to order his death once he became the Oba of Benin.
[6] To further complicate matters, Osopakharha developed a close and controversial relationship with Iyoba Ose, the mother of Prince Osifo and the matron of the Eniwanren-Aso witches coven.
[5] His frequent visits to her palace at Uselu raised eyebrows and fuelled the rivalry, with some viewing Osopakharha's actions as an affront to Obanosa's authority.
[3] In a shocking and unprecedented act, Obanosa ordered the public execution of his own mother by stoning, using moulded bricks of esorhue (sea chalk).
[10][11][7] Obanosa's reign left a significant impact on Benin's history, characterised by conflicts, power struggles, and the influence of the Eniwanren-Aso witches coven.