The Lake of Aya: A Sacred Connection to the Divine Emergence of Araya
*Author:** Mathias Adidi
**Narrators:** Luis Eghagha
**Assistant Narrators:** Charles Akenemo, Emmanuel Adidi
The Beginning of Araya Community
The origin story of the Araya community is a significant narrative, primarily chronicled by Luis Eghagha, a respected historian and storyteller within the community. His recounting of events not only preserves the past but also instills a sense of identity and belonging among the people of Araya.
The Narrator: Luis Eghagha
Luis Eghagha is recognized for his deep knowledge of the Araya community’s history and his role in passing down oral traditions. His narratives provide crucial insights into the socio-cultural dynamics of the community and the key figures who shaped its foundations. Through his storytelling, he ensures that the memories of the past continue to resonate with younger generations, fostering a collective identity rooted in shared history.
Key Figures in the Origin Story
Central to the history of Araya are Late Chief Ode Eghagha and Late Chief Adidi. Chief Ode Eghagha was a prominent leader who played a pivotal role in the community’s development. His collaboration with Chief Adidi, the first leader to move the Araya community meetings away from Aviara back to Araya,
Oral Traditions and Historical Confirmation
The histories surrounding the Araya community have been preserved through oral traditions, particularly by elders such as late Pa Agbowo. In the early 1970s, he shared these stories with the younger generations, ensuring the legacy of their ancestors was not forgotten. His teachings emphasized the importance of understanding their roots and the struggles faced by their forbearers.
Additionally, Mr. Emmanuel Adidi, a descendant of Chief Adidi, confirms the significance of these narratives. He highlights the fact that Chief Adidi was the sixth generation descendant of the Aya lineage, a detail that underscores the continuity of leadership and the enduring connection to their ancestry.
The Origin of Araya: A Historical Narrative
AFTER THE REIGN OF OBA OGIJO . OBA EVERAME EMERGE
In the vibrant era of the Benin Kingdom, during the reign of Oba Everame, a tapestry of events began to weave the history of Araya. This period was marked by cultural richness, festivals, and the trials of a society grappling with the harsh realities of life, including the tragic fate of male children.
Among the royal family was Prince Aya, a young man of noble lineage, whose heart was filled with the Spirit of adventure and camaraderie.
The killing of male child in the Royal family in Benin kingdom
As the Benin festival approached, excitement filled the air; however, a shadow loomed over the kingdom due to the unsettling occurrences of male child killings, which led many families to despair and seek refuge.
As the festival commenced, Aya found himself searching for his friends and brothers—Everieze, Ozue , and Erovie—who had fled the kingdom in fear. Their bond was strong, and Aya was determined to reunite with them. He embarked on a perilous journey, first arriving at Agbede a place known for its vibrant community and rich traditions.
AYA ARRIVED AGBEDE MOVE THROUGH ABOR TO ENUETHE
From Agbede, Aya moved toward Abor, where whispers of his brothers’ whereabouts lingered. The call of the river Niger beckoned him, guiding him towards Enuethe, a location not far from Asaba-ase. It was during his stay in Enuethe that Aya Ebeneze stumbled upon a mystical lake called Ariare, , a guardian spirit of the waters. This lake, whose waters shimmered with promise,
As Aya continued his quest, he eventually found Everieze, who was also searching for safety. Together, they traveled to Averao, where they hoped to find solace and strength.
AYA ARRIVED AVERAO (NOW AVIARA)
Their journey led them to a place that would forever hold significance—the site of the present-day Aviara market, which became a thriving hub of trade and culture.
In this new land in Averao where Aya pick and settled for years. This same location is where the Edho-Aya, (the gods of Aya,) reside today,Aya’s determination, resilience, and the unity with his brothers forged a new beginning.
As Aya approached the village of Averao, the sun cast long shadows over the land, illuminating the faces of those who had sought refuge from the turmoil of the Benin Kingdom. The name “Averao,” meaning “meat slaughterplace,” resonated with the community’s origins; it was a strategic hub where hunters gathered to process their catches and where a new life began for many who had fled violence and tragedy.
Among the early settlers were notable figures from their homeland, including Ozue, known as Ogwara—a man of remarkable strength and prowess. His father, Ozoluo, was a legendary giant, towering at an impressive sixteen feet. Ozoluo’s might became a symbol of hope and resilience for the people, while Ozue, though slightly shorter, inherited his father’s valor and spirit. He fought gallantly in every skirmish, emerging victorious and earning the admiration of his peers.
Yet, with success came envy. Ozue ’s strength and accomplishments stirred resentment among some in the village, including those who had once called him friend. Their jealousy festered, ultimately leading to a tragic betrayal that would shake the foundations of Averao.
When Aya finally arrived, he was welcomed into a community that was both vibrant and complex. He quickly learned of the legends surrounding Ozoluo and Ozue, and the tales of their exploits echoed through the village. The stories spoke of battles won, alliances forged, and the deep-seated envy that had led to Ozue’s downfall.
One fateful night, as the stars twinkled overhead, a ruse was set in motion. Ozue, exhausted from a day of hunting and trade, fell into a deep slumber. Meanwhile, his envious neighbors plotted their betrayal, led by Abiogu, who had once been one of Ozue’s closest companions. They conspired to eliminate the threat that Ozue posed to their ambitions.
In a calculated move, they woke Ozue, shouting that their village was under attack. Confusion reigned as he scrambled to his feet, shouting, “Where? Where are they?” His heart raced with the impulse to protect his people. In the chaos, they directed him toward a deep pit they had dug as a trap.
Unaware of the deception, Ozue charged forward, only to find himself plunging into the pit. The earth swallowed him, and before he could react, stones rained down upon him, silencing the once-mighty warrior. The betrayal was swift and brutal, a fatal end to a life filled with promise and strength.
When Aya learned of Ozue’s fate, he felt a surge of grief and anger. The community was shaken by the loss of their protector, their symbol of strength. In the days that followed, the villagers mourned, and whispers of resentment and betrayal filled the air. Ozue’s house was in the center of Averao, Irri Road, Bethel Road and Araya Road.
The Discovery of Aya Lake
As Aya settled into life in Averao, he and his wife, Egbesi, quickly adapted to their new surroundings. Their home, located near what is now known as Aviara Market, served as a hub of community and activity. The couple frequently ventured back to Enuethe for hunting, enjoying the bountiful resources of the land.
One day, while Aya waited patiently for Egbesi to return from a nearby thicket where she had gone to relieve herself, she stumbled upon a magnificent sight—a vast lake teeming with fish. Drawn by the shimmering surface and the promise of plentiful catch, she moved closer, captivated by the life that thrived in the waters.
Upon returning to Aya, Egbesi excitedly recounted her discovery. “Aya, you won’t believe what I found! There’s a huge lake full of fish! We must go see it together!” Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, and Aya, intrigued by her description, agreed to accompany her.
Together, they returned to the lake, claiming it as the first humans to discover its riches. They named it Aya Lake, a tribute to their bond and the new life they were building together. With its abundant fish, the lake quickly became a vital resource for the couple.
In the following weeks, Aya and Egbesi made regular trips to Aya Lake for fishing. Each time they returned, they brought back astonishing catches, much to the amazement of their friends and neighbors in Averao. The size and quantity of the fish they caught became the talk of the community, drawing curious onlookers eager to learn their secret.
As word spread, many in the village began to ask Aya when they could join him on his fishing expeditions. However, protective of their newfound treasure, Aya hesitated. He desired to keep the lake as a special place for his family, not wanting it to become overexploited by the entire community. His refusal to share the lake bred resentment among some villagers.
In jest, and perhaps with a hint of bitterness, they began to refer to Aya and Egbesi as “Awaworie-Ania,” meaning “he goes with only his people.” This nickname, although initially meant to mock, gradually evolved into a term of endearment and identity. The name symbolizes the couple’s bond and the exclusivity they maintained over the lake.
As time passed, “Awaworie-Ania” became intertwined with the identity of their community, which began to be known as Araya, symbolizing unity among those who shared the values of family and loyalty. The story of Aya Lake and the couple’s fishing prowess became a cherished part of local lore, teaching future generations about the importance of protecting sacred spaces and the strength found in community bonds.
The lake continued to thrive, and Aya and Egbesi’s fishing expeditions became legendary, attracting not just curiosity but also respect. They taught those who were genuinely interested in preserving the lake’s bounty how to fish sustainably, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
The Births of Araya
After many fruitful years in Averao, Aya, a noble descendant of the Benin Kingdom, had established a life filled with love and growth. He was blessed with three children from three mothers: Owhie, a daughter; Emerho, a son; and Egbeme, another son, who went on to have many children of his own. As the years passed, however, the envy and jealousy surrounding Aya and his family became increasingly unbearable, threatening the harmony they had worked so hard to build.
The original founder of Araya community
In the early 1700s, feeling the weight of hostility from those around him, Aya decided it was time for a change. He sought a higher ground, a place closer to the cherished Aya Lake that had brought his family and community so much sustenance and joy. After searching diligently, he discovered an elevated location that offered both safety and a view of the lake. This high ground, which would become known as Othiye, became the new heart of their community.
Recognizing the importance of unity among his children, Aya divided the land into two parts for his sons, Emerho and Egbeme. The Adidi family lineage of Egbeme would emerge as pivotal in the governance of their new home. Adidi, a descendant of Egbeme, became the first leader to rule the Araya community, marking the sixth generation of Aya’s descendants. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to fostering a strong, cohesive community.
As the community began to take shape, Aya welcomed in-laws, friends, and allies to join them in Araya. Together, they forged a new identity, distinct from the pressures and oppression they had faced in Averao. Before Adidi could officially move the community meeting to Araya, however, he had to confront the lingering influence of the Aviara Kingdom.
The tension had escalated after Aya refused to hand over Aya Lake to the Aviara authorities, a decision that stirred anger and resentment among the Aviara people. As the pressure mounted, Aya stood firm, declaring that the lake belonged to his children and would never be relinquished. This defiance triggered a serious fallout; the Aviara Kingdom, feeling betrayed, took an oath that barred Aya and his descendants from participating in the lakes of the Aviara Kingdom, while also preventing Aviara from accessing Aya Lake.
Despite this tumultuous relationship, Aya sought to broker peace. He offered the Owholo Lake and Awara Lake to the Aviara king in a gesture of goodwill, hoping to foster a sense of cooperation. This act was not only strategic but also demonstrated Aya’s desire for his community to flourish without the weight of past grievances.
Before Adidi moved the community meetings to Araya, he consulted with Mr. Hothen, a respected young man at the time known for his wisdom. Upon receiving confirmation that Hothen could write, Adidi prepared to announce the transition. He gathered the people of Araya and urged them to return to their ancestral roots, emphasizing the need for unity and purpose.
As the community began to settle into their new home, other villages took note of their resilience and soon followed suit, joining the growing Araya community. The original founders, known as Owhawhonia, were primarily the descendants of Aya and his three children. As more in-laws, friends, and even strangers joined, the community flourished, bound by shared values, history, and a common goal of prosperity. To be continued on the Araya Religion aspect and key figures that have risen to high positions in Nigeria.