The Oba of Benin is the traditional ruler and the custodian of the culture of the Edo people and all Edoid people. The then Kingdom of Benin has continued to be mostly populated by the Edo.
Ovonramwen, Oba of Benin from 1888- January 1898
An Oba on horseback with attendants from 16th century
An Oba of Benin from the late 17th century
Oba Oguola. Museum of Black Civilisations, Dakar.
Nigerian traditional rulers
Nigerian traditional rulers often derive their titles from the rulers of independent states or communities that existed before the formation of modern Nigeria. Although they do not have formal political power, in many cases they continue to command respect from their people and have considerable influence in their community.
Image of a 16th-century ruler (Oba) of the Benin Empire
The Oba of Lagos with a delegation of Naval Officers in June 2006
Sa'adu Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto and Sarkin Musulmi of Nigeria, current Co-Chair of the National Council of Traditional Rulers
Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife, current Co-Chair of the National Council of Traditional Rulers