# Odoligie

Odoligie was the twenty-fourth Ogiso of the Kingdom of Igodomigodo (later known as Benin) who ruled from 1070 to 1085 AD. Succeeding his father Oriagba, he is known for his leadership in warfare and administrative changes. He is credited with founding the Benin army and leading campaigns aimed at unifying the kingdom and addressing uprisings. Odoligie's era marked a phase of reinforced governance and territorial expansion.

## Background

Born in Oroghotodin, Great Benin, Odoligie was Oriagba's son. He spent his early years with the Igbeni, a group of elephant hunters, where he learned hunting and marksmanship. Under his father’s guidance and the mentorship of Ozua, a warrior and healer, Odoligie received training for kingship. By the time he assumed the throne, he had developed the skills to manage both internal and external challenges.

## Early life

Odoligie moved from his family’s residence at Oroghotodin during adolescence to live with the Igbeni. There, he developed proficiency in hunting and weaponry, which later influenced his leadership strategies. His bond with the Okaigbeni, chief of the elephant hunters, significantly shaped his leadership style. These formative experiences were reflected in his military strategies during his reign.

## Reign

When Odoligie ascended the throne, he focused on consolidating power and addressing opposition. The Senior Nobles, sidelined under his father’s rule, posed challenges. To maintain his authority, Odoligie adopted a decisive approach to governance and conflict resolution.
Odoligie’s reign included governance reforms. He involved guilds in administrative affairs, assigning significant roles to their leaders, which streamlined state functions and ensured resource mobilisation. His military reforms, notably creating a structured army, played a role in maintaining order and stability.
A notable event during his reign was the 1075 AD royal Ugiorre (manhood ceremony), which trained warriors instrumental in his campaigns. As the kingdom’s first military ruler, Odoligie led efforts to suppress rebellion and expand territories. His military achievements, including forming the Benin army, remain significant.
Odoligie emphasised collaboration with guilds for administrative needs. He oversaw infrastructure projects, including palace renovations and road construction to enhance connectivity among villages. His governance style blended traditional practices with innovative strategies.
Odoligie's military campaigns extended to the provinces beyond Rivers Ovia, Ikpoba, and Orhionmwon, where acts of rebellion were rampant. He used his army to subjugate rebellious chieftains and enforce loyalty to the crown. In the western part of the kingdom, Odoligie faced resistance from the Enogie of Udo, who had created a rival kingdom and refused to pay tribute to the Ogiso. The campaign against Udo was one of the most challenging military efforts during Odoligie's reign. Despite initial difficulties, Odoligie's forces, led by Iken, eventually succeeded in capturing Udo and bringing it under the control of Igodomigodo.

## Death and legacy

Odoligie died in 1085 AD, leaving behind a unified kingdom and a legacy of military and administrative progress. His successor, Uwa, inherited a stable realm.