What is the title of the king's mother in Benin kingdom?
Answer Details
The title of the king's mother in the Benin Kingdom is "Iyoba". This title is a combination of two words: "Iyó" which means "Queen" and "Oba" which means "King" in the Bini language.
In the Benin Kingdom, the Iyoba was a very important figure and held a significant role in the administration of the kingdom. She was also responsible for the welfare of women and children in the kingdom.
When a new king was crowned in the kingdom, his mother was also given the title of Iyoba. This was to acknowledge her as the mother of the king and to give her a position of honor and respect within the kingdom. The Iyoba had her own palace and was served by her own retinue of attendants.
One of the most famous Iyobas in Benin history was Queen Idia, who was the mother of Oba Esigie. She played a crucial role in helping her son to defeat the Igala people in a battle and was celebrated as a warrior queen. Today, the Iyoba still holds an important position in the Benin Kingdom and is regarded with great respect and reverence.