The 70th year memorial anniversary of my beloved grandfather, Chief Dawson Ogiemudia Obaseki, the Obaruyiedo of the Benin Kingdom, marks a solemn moment of reflection on a life defined by service, distinction, and enduring legacy. Born in 1896, though the precise date remains unrecorded in family history, he emerged from a lineage of prominence and honour.

He was the son of Chief Agho Obaseki of the Ogbeide-Oyo family, who held the revered titles of Obaseki and Iyase of Benin, and Madam Umweni Obaseki, daughter of Chief Ezomo. Notably, he was her only child with his father and the fourth son among his siblings, following Wilson Aigbedo, Chief Philip Agbonifo Obaseki, and Chief Humphrey Ogunseri Obaseki (Dedekuma).

A pioneer of Western education among the Benin people, Chief Dawson’s early embrace of formal learning reflected both personal determination and his father’s foresight, as documented in scholarly accounts. Upon completing his education, he began his career as a ranger in the Forestry Department of the Benin Divisional Council. His dedication to public service saw him rise through the ranks, serving as Customary Court Registrar in the Kukuruku Division, Treasurer of the Benin Divisional Council, and eventually as a Customary Court Judge.

His contributions to the Benin Kingdom were further recognised through prestigious chieftaincy honours. In 1931, Oba Eweka II conferred on him the title of Ogua of Benin, a gesture he commemorated by naming his son Ikpomwonba Obaseki. In 1938, Oba Akenzua II elevated him to the distinguished and hereditary title of Obaruyiedo, a unique honour that set him apart in Benin history. He remains the only chief known to have served in both the Eghavon’ore and Eghavbon’ogbe classes of chiefs, underscoring his exceptional standing.

Beyond public office, Chief Dawson was a man of enterprise and vision. He established thriving rubber and palm plantations, as well as a cattle ranch in Okhuo, Urhokuosa, and Utoka. His extensive landholdings included areas that have since become significant landmarks, notably the present site of the University of Benin Ekehuan Campus, land at Ikpoba Slope stretching towards IDH, a plantation at Mile 4 along Sapele Road, and the grounds now occupied by St. Maria Goretti.
He was blessed with a large family and is survived by a distinguished lineage. Six of his children remain alive today, including Madam Margaret Naghagurueghian Alohan, Pa Felix Obaseki, Pa Victor Esewi Obaseki, Chief J. B. Obaseki, Rev. Mrs Eunice Nete Ateru, and Mrs Stella Omorede Oriakhi. His legacy continues through numerous accomplished grandchildren, among them Chief Evans Igho-Osagie, Dr Nosa Omoregie, Dr Charles Obaseki, Chief John Omoregie, Professor Darlington Obaseki, and several others who have excelled across public service, academia, and industry.
Seventy years after his passing, the memory of Chief Dawson Ogiemudia Obaseki remains vivid and inspiring. The stories shared by his children and chronicled by respected figures such as S. W. E. Aisien continue to affirm the depth of his impact. He lived a full and purposeful life, leaving behind a legacy that commands pride and reverence.
Edo ye yokhai. Okhiendehia Baba.
Kept in evergreen memory by Chief Owen Chamberlain Obaseki, JP, Otaifoh of Uromi, grandson