Adolo

Adolo (r. 1848–1888) originally known as ODIN-O VDA, was the thirty-fourth Oba (ruler) of Benin in the 19th century. He was the son of Oba Osemwende and the brother of Ogbewekon, who rebelled against his rule in 1853 but were defeated shortly after. He led out many campaigns on cities and took down rebels in the empire with the help of his military commanders, Ebohon and Ezomo Osarogiagbon. He was also known as a kind-hearted, wise king that helped with the upkeep of the elderly and helpless. He also founded many cities in the empire and established new markets.

Oba Adolo
Oba of Benin
Reign	1848-1888
Coronation	1848
Predecessor	Osemwende
Successor	Ovonramwen
Born	Odin-O VDA
Died	1888
Spouse	Arokun
Issue	Ovonramwen
Regnal name Adolo
House	House of Eweka

Early reign

After Oba Adolo's ascension in 1848 after his father, Oba Osemwende's death, four years later his brother Ogbwekon, rebelled against his rule, hoping to take the throne for himself. Stationed in Igueben, he went on to disturb the Oba's peace to put more pressure on his rule, hoping to gain support. After rebelling, he instigated furthermore rebellions in the area during 1853–1854. Ebohon was chosen to take command in countering the rebellions in the city and he led a series of successful campaigns during 1853–1854, destroying the rebels and being rewarded by the Oba. But after the rebels were countered the Oba said, "Do not say that Ogbewekon was my enemy. He was no enemy to me at all, but was my real brother. We were born on the same day. If he is dead it is an indication that my own death is also approaching" After Ebohon was awarded the Iyase of Udo, he went on his way to the city, but shortly died unknowingly, about to assume office. Oral history recounts that an Iroko Tree sprang out of his head at the spot in which he was buried.

Late reign

After Ebohon's death, in 1879, Ilesha was occupied by Ibadan warriors under Ajayí Ogboriefon and Ogbedengbe and had to take refuge at ltagbolu in Ekiti. After a few years, the Ibadans under Babalola, invaded Ekiti. Under the command of Ogbedengbe and Balogun Asa, the Ekitis held them back for a couple of months, but they became exhausted, eventually asking for Oba Adolo's help. Hundreds of Edo warriors were sent the following couple of days and the Idabans were defeated, eventually suing for peace with the Ekitis. After the taking down of the Idabans, the Ekitis sent presents to the Oba and continued their yearly tribute. Ogagun, one of the sons of Obegbo, after leaving Benin during the reign of Oba Osemwende and returning during the reign of Oba Adolo, was granted the title, Osasemwoyen by the Oba.

He was known for being a famous magician and influential figure in the Benin Empire. He was honoured and respected amongst the people of Benin. Eventually, he would marry prince Idugbowa's (Ovonramwen) daughter Arokun. He named his grandson Usuanlele, born for Ovonramwen by Arokun. Oba Adolo, seeing the names that Ogagun created, suggested that he commit suicide because he was endangering his sons' life. Ogagun eventually said that he did not wish to die yet and could not be compelled to do it. Ogagun then began a series of sacrifices after the arguments he had with Oba Adolo, eventually saying "Tell Adolo to send the necessary victims to me direct to be slaughtered and eaten instead of sending them to Squares and high places because I am not a lower creature to eat sacrificial victims in the Squares like dogs." But in 1882, Ogagun was forced to commit suicide after some time.

Death

Oba Adolo eventually died in 1888 unknowing, allowing for his son, prince Idugbowa (Ovonramwen) to succeed him.