𝐄𝐃𝐎𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐂__

How did ‘aza’ come to replace bank account in our everyday colloquial language? What is the etymology?

How did ‘aza’ come to replace bank account in our everyday colloquial language? What is the etymology?

The Ivbiyokuo- the footsoldiers were the lowest rank in the Benin military structure headed by platoon commanders. The journey to becoming a recognized war leader or general in the Benin Kingdom began during an individual’s eghele stage. In Edo people tradition, the eghele represents the third tier in the age-grade system, typically comprising men between the ages of 31 and 50. At this stage, they are regarded as active citizen-warriors, fully committed to the service and defense of the Oba and the state. At this stage, individuals who chose paths outside warfare, such as the artistic, trade, dance, or entertainment guilds, also began to develop mastery in their respective professions. However, in rural areas of the Benin Kingdom, the eghele were predominantly warriors. They functioned as organized village regiments and could be called upon at any time to serve in the kingdom’s military, reinforcing the defense and expansion of the state under the Oba. The establishment of military camps in strategically important dukedoms and towns across the Benin Kingdom also played a crucial role in their formation. Places such as Uselu, Uzebu, Obadan, Okhokhuo, Ughoton, Igbanke, Isiemwenro, Ova, and Utekon, among others, hosted military camps where youths and foot soldiers underwent rigorous training, preparing them to become some of the most formidable warriors in the Bight of Benin. The Igun Ematon district is also important to the military camps because it was here the Benin weapons of war were made and tested. It is also important to note that warriors of the Benin Kingdom were expected to uphold an uncompromising standard in warfare defeat, was rarely tolerated. In certain instances, the loss of a battle could attract severe consequences, ranging from punishment of the infantry involved to, more commonly, the execution of their commanders. This strict code of accountability instilled discipline and a profound sense of duty, compelling soldiers to take their training and responsibilities with utmost seriousness. During their training in the camp, they are trained on how to use traditional weapons like Asoro (spear), Uhanbo (bow), Agbada (sword), and after the 16th century the training on the use of firearms, cross bows were introduced to the camps and the warriors after the Benin diplomatic ties with the portuguese. The edo system of mass mobilization of soldiers was duly noted by visiting Dutch and the French captain Landolphe, how the Oba could mobilize 20,000 soldiers in a day and 80,000 to 180,000 if possible. The footsoldiers are also taught how to use the Asa - shield as a defensive gear, which was made from hide, wood to cover them to the kneel to protect themselves from enemies attack, while the commanders, warlords and senior officers body armor made of quilted ponchos covered with leopard skins, which were thick enough to resist spears and arrows.

Do you know that with just 1200 Naira you can take a tour and explore the National Museum at Ring Road, Roundabout King square Benin City and see the ancient Benin Traditional items and Obas Cc:Mercury Check the aesthetics art pictures in comment section.