The fourth theory of the origin of the Uneme people is one that speaks about the peoples derivation from the Igun or Idunmwigun-Ugboha area of Benin. This theory which stems from a Bini Oral tradition was made popular by certain scholars. But the Bini Oral traditions collected recently show that the Uneme did not originate from Benin. Their early contact with Benin is one of migration and re-settlement in the area. The period of their arrival in the area has been traced to the era of the Ogiso dynasty in Benin. Ere, the second Ogiso monarch in Benin who ruled from 925 A.D to 960 A.D was said to be the soveriegn on the throne when the migrant Uneme moved into the area. Like most other 'migrant-settlers' The Uneme were directed to occupy sites of their choice in the suburb of Benin-city.
With the passage of time, the Unemes distinguished themselves in the field of blacksmithing based on the use of their indigenous iron technology. During the period, only a few sub-groups in Benin area were able to practise the art of blacksmithing, for it was a rare and difficult art. Even more complex was the technology used for the exploration, exploitation and management of the metallurgical materials utilized for blacksmithing during the period.
It was against this background that the excellent leadership demonstrated by the Uneme settlers in the mentioned field, came to be deeply appreciated and respected by other groups in the area. The high quality and rich variety of the metal crafts produced by Uneme blacksmiths had equally earned the Uneme as a people regard and respect from their neighbours. This encouraged the Ogiso Ere to persuade the Uneme to move from the outskirts to the heart of the city, where he maintained close contact with the people. The new communities established by the Uneme in the Benin metropolis of that time were located in the Igun or Idunmwigun area, especially in Igun-Ugboha, Igun-Enyaanugie, Igun-Uselu, Igun-Adaha.
With the passage of time, the Unemes distinguished themselves in the field of blacksmithing based on the use of their indigenous iron technology. During the period, only a few sub-groups in Benin area were able to practise the art of blacksmithing, for it was a rare and difficult art. Even more complex was the technology used for the exploration, exploitation and management of the metallurgical materials utilized for blacksmithing during the period.
It was against this background that the excellent leadership demonstrated by the Uneme settlers in the mentioned field, came to be deeply appreciated and respected by other groups in the area. The high quality and rich variety of the metal crafts produced by Uneme blacksmiths had equally earned the Uneme as a people regard and respect from their neighbours. This encouraged the Ogiso Ere to persuade the Uneme to move from the outskirts to the heart of the city, where he maintained close contact with the people. The new communities established by the Uneme in the Benin metropolis of that time were located in the Igun or Idunmwigun area, especially in Igun-Ugboha, Igun-Enyaanugie, Igun-Uselu, Igun-Adaha.
Reference
Egharevba, A Short History of Benin
Harunah, A Cultural History of the Uneme
Egharevba, A Short History of Benin
Harunah, A Cultural History of the Uneme
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