The Legendary King Itaru Dedi of Abere Community

 

ITARU THE GREAT

The Legendary King Itaru Dedi of Abere Community

Written by Mr. Biriemi Powei (Abere Community)
Edited by Prince Agbedeyi O. D.
Published by Global Egberi Media International

KING ITARU DEDI: A FOUNDING FIGURE OF ABERE COMMUNITY

In the glorious annals of Egbema Kingdom, the name King Itaru Dedi echoes like a thunderclap, strong and unforgettable. Born around 1024 AD into the revered Dedi family, with maternal roots in Ofunama, he rose to become not only a formidable warrior but a sacred leader, diplomat, spiritual head, and community builder.

He is especially celebrated as one of the founding figures of the Abere community, where his rule over Ijawgbo and Ugbolowoso (Abere-elehei) laid the foundation for what would become a beacon of culture, leadership, and tradition in Egbema Kingdom.

EARLY LIFE AND EXILE: A HERO MOLDED BY HARDSHIP

King Itaru’s early life was not paved with gold. Misunderstandings with his father led to his exile—a moment that could have broken many, but instead forged greatness in him. Sent to live with his maternal uncle in Ofunama, the ancestral heart of Egbema, young Itaru was embraced by his mother’s people and mentored by prominent community elders such as Toboide and Itohin.

These years in exile would prove pivotal. Itaru was exposed to the ancient wisdom of the elders, the strategic thinking of warriors, and the deep spiritual traditions of Egbema. Like iron sharpened by fire, Itaru emerged as a refined leader—stronger, wiser, and destined for greatness.

THE WARRIOR KING: THE SHIELD OF EGBEMA

From the moment he took up arms, King Itaru Dedi proved himself a force of nature. His tactics on the battlefield were brilliant; his courage, unmatched. As he led his people through various territorial and tribal conflicts, he was known for never retreating, never surrendering. Victory seemed to follow him like a loyal servant.

So formidable was his reputation that he was granted the land upon which he would establish his legacy—Abere. There, he founded the thriving communities of Ijawgbo and Ugbolowoso, bringing together people under a banner of strength, order, and progress.

KING AND BANOWEI: KEEPER OF TRADITION AND SPIRITUAL ORDER

King Itaru was not merely a political ruler—he was also the Banowei, a sacred and feared title in Egbema tradition. As Banowei, he was the spiritual and ritual head of the community, charged with the immense responsibility of maintaining spiritual balance.

Among his duties was the year-end human sacrifice, a solemn and deeply respected ritual believed to cleanse the land, protect the people, and appease ancestral spirits. This role was not for the faint-hearted. It demanded emotional strength, spiritual conviction, and an unyielding connection to the gods.

Through these rites, King Itaru reinforced the spiritual backbone of Abere and Egbema at large, preserving ancient customs while embodying the divine authority passed down through generations.

DIPLOMACY AND TRADE: BUILDING BRIDGES BEYOND BORDERS

Long before modern diplomacy, King Itaru Dede was already a master negotiator. He established productive trade relations with the Portuguese, using diplomacy to bring tangible benefits to his people. Through barter and exchange, he acquired:

  • Currency and valuables
  • Weapons for defense and prestige
  • Canoe-carving tools, notably:
    • Sogu-Ogun
    • Battle axes and machetes

These items revolutionized the Abere economy, boosting local production, enhancing mobility across the waterways, and preparing his community for defense and expansion. Unlike some rulers who hoarded wealth, King Itaru distributed tools, weapons, and resources among his children, loyalists, and fellow elders, building a robust socio-economic structure that outlived him.

FAMILY AND DESCENDANTS: THE TREE THAT BEARS MANY FRUITS

King Itaru’s bloodline lives on through his children, each of whom carried forward a piece of his spirit, leadership, and strength:

  1. Mr. Ijoumuwei Itaru
  2. Chief Odu Itaru
  3. Mrs. Diyegha Itaru
  4. Mrs. Pugha Itaru
  5. Opiran Itaru
  6. Ijawgbo Itaru

From these children sprang powerful family lineages including:

  • Ukulo
  • Wonidengha
  • Biokorogha
  • Ebibile
  • Beju
  • Meretiagha

These families today remain influential across Egbema, carrying forward the values and traditions seeded by their legendary forebear.

A LEGACY SET IN STONE AND SPIRIT

Itaru the Great is not merely a memory; he is a living force. In songs sung by elders, in rituals performed by priests, in stories whispered to children at night, his name endures. From Ofunama to Abere, his influence is as present as the tides that lap the riverbanks.

A warrior, a founder, a ritual leader, a father of nations—King Itaru Dedi is a towering figure in the cultural and historical narrative of the Egbema Kingdom. His story reminds us of the virtues of bravery, responsibility, sacrifice, and service.

“He was not born great, but through trials and duty, he became a giant among men.”

 Mr. Biriemi Powei 

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