The Benin Kingdom is celebrating a remarkable milestone as Chief Sam Odighi Uginviwe Igbe, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, clocks 97 years, marking nearly a century of service, leadership, scholarship and commitment to the preservation of Benin heritage.
The occasion is also being marked with the launch of some of his books, further highlighting his longstanding contribution as a prolific writer and chronicler of history.
In a special birthday tribute, the Benin Writers Society, through its President, Douglas Ogbankwa Esq., described Chief Sam Igbe as a towering figure, custodian of tradition and a living repository of Benin history.
Ogbankwa noted that the position of Iyase represents more than a traditional title, describing Chief Igbe as an important voice of the Palace, an anchor of the Benin Traditional Institution and a link between generations.
He celebrated the 97-year-old traditional chief for what he described as a life characterised by loyalty, courage, service and dedication to the preservation of Benin customs and heritage.
According to the tribute, Chief Igbe’s influence extends beyond the traditional institution, with his wisdom and experience continuing to contribute to conversations surrounding the Kingdom and Edo State.
A LIFE OF SERVICE IN THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE
Chief Sam Igbe’s journey of public service also includes a distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force, where he rose through the ranks to become Acting Commissioner of Police in Anambra State.
Born on September 13, 1931, in Benin City, present-day Edo State, Igbe began his education at St. Peter’s CMS, Benin City, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate.
He later attended Edo College, Benin City, where he obtained the Cambridge School Certificate, before proceeding to St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, where he earned a Teachers’ Grade II Certificate and subsequently his G.C.E. Advanced Level qualification.
Before joining the police, Igbe worked in the civil service as a Third Class Clerk between 1952 and 1954.
He later moved into teaching and worked as a teacher from 1954 to 1965.
His career in law enforcement began in 1956 when he joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Sub-Inspector.
RISING THROUGH THE POLICE RANKS
Throughout his police career, Igbe served in various capacities and postings across the country.
He worked in all sections of the Force in Lagos and served for three years as Headquarters Officer at St. John’s.
He also spent eight years at the Police College, Ikeja, where he eventually rose to become Commandant.
His experience and leadership qualities subsequently earned him senior appointments.
In February 1976, he was posted to Akure as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
By May of the same year, he was transferred to Enugu as Commissioner of Police.
He later served in an acting capacity as Commissioner of Police in Anambra State.
His long service in the Nigeria Police Force earned him several honours and awards, including the Police Long Service Medal, National Medal, Nigerian Independence Medal and St. John’s Award.
FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT TO TRADITIONAL LEADERSHIP
Chief Igbe’s journey from the classroom and civil service to the Nigeria Police Force and eventually the traditional institution reflects a life shaped by discipline, public service and leadership.
As Iyase of Benin Kingdom, he has continued to occupy an influential position within the traditional institution, while also contributing to the preservation and documentation of Benin history.
His passion for writing has produced several books and historical treatises, providing another avenue through which his experiences, knowledge and understanding of history can be preserved for future generations.
The Benin Writers Society described his continued presence as an asset to the Palace, the Kingdom and Edo State.
The society also celebrated his role as a patriot, father and defender of Benin heritage.
As he marks his 97th birthday and launches his latest books, prayers and goodwill messages have continued to accompany the milestone.
The Benin Writers Society wished Chief Sam Igbe long life, good health and continued strength to serve, while praying for peace and enduring impact throughout his tenure as Iyase.
The tribute concluded with a celebration of the Benin Kingdom and a reaffirmation of loyalty to His Royal Majesty, the Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ghator Kpere Uwa II.
At 97, Chief Sam Igbe’s story remains one of a life lived across several generations and institutions from education and civil service to policing, traditional leadership, writing and cultural preservation.
His journey stands as a testament to the enduring value of service, knowledge and commitment to heritage.
