Orhogbua conquers Mahin and reaches Lagos (Eko)

Orhogbua, son and successor of Esigie, consolidated Benin's coastal sphere of influence by conquering Mahin and penetrating westwards as far as the island on which Lagos now stands. The expedition kept him absent from Benin for many years; he only returned at the insistence of his chiefs. The camp at Eko eventually developed into the state of Lagos, ruled by a king who traced his descent from the royal line of Benin, though his subjects were of Yoruba origin. For almost three centuries the royal house and chiefs of Lagos maintained their association with Benin by seeking confirmation of their titles from the Oba and paying tribute.