AHEBI UGBABE (FIRST FEMALE KING IN ENIGU-EZIKE)
Once upon a time in Igboland, there was a young woman named Ahebi Ugbabe. Born in Enugu-Ezike, Ahebi’s life began in a society where women were meant to stay within strict boundaries. But from the start, she was different—rebellious, bold, and determined to control her destiny.
One fateful day, Ahebi was forced to flee her village after a dispute threatened her safety. She made her way to Igala land, where she began working as a sex worker, a role that, in her hands, became a means of survival and empowerment. Over time, she became close to local Igala leaders and later to British colonial officers. This unique position allowed her to master languages, including Igbo, Igala, Nupe, and Pidgin English, making her a formidable communicator. 1 reply
0 recast
1 reaction
With her wit, charm, and alliances, Ahebi gained the favor of the British, who, seeing her potential for leadership, appointed her a warrant chief—the first and only female warrant chief in Nigeria. But Ahebi was not content with just the British title; she had dreams far larger. Returning to Enugu-Ezike, she boldly declared herself king, a title unheard of for a woman in her society. She did not seek to be queen; she wanted the full authority of kingship.
As king, Ahebi ruled for nearly 30 years. She held court, judged cases, and her palace became a sanctuary for women escaping abusive marriages. She even took wives, paying their bride prices and assuming the role of “male husband,” as was permitted in certain Igbo traditions. Children born to her wives were named after her, and she embraced this male identity fully, challenging traditional gender roles.
But Ahebi knew her people’s beliefs well. Fearing she might be denied proper funeral rites upon her death, she held her own funeral while still… 0 reply
0 recast
0 reaction