It’s always amusing how modern historians try to rewrite history, often missing critical details about the origins and identities of ancient civilizations. Let’s clarify something important—there was no “Bini” as we know it today during that period. The region was historically referred to as “Ani-Idu”, a term deeply rooted in the traditions of the Igbo-speaking people who predominantly inhabited the area.
The narrative of “Bini princes founding communities” often oversimplifies or misrepresents the historical reality of this era. Ani-Idu was a melting pot of cultures and identities, with its governance, traditions, and migrations being influenced by neighboring groups. While there were connections between Ani-Idu and the Benin Kingdom, claiming that Bini princes single-handedly established various communities ignores the rich and autonomous history of the indigenous Igbo-speaking people who lived in these regions.
The people of Enuani, a sub-group of the Anioma (Western Igbo), have their roots firmly planted in Igbo culture and identity. Their language, traditions, and oral histories reflect a deep connection to their Igbo heritage, not a narrative of dependence on external influences.
So, the next time someone claims “another Bini prince” founded a community, it’s worth asking: who were the people already living there? What was their role in shaping the community’s identity? Let’s honor history by acknowledging the contributions of the indigenous people who laid the foundations for these communities long before colonial or modern interpretations of history emerged.
Peoplesmind
