Afuze is a town located in the
Owan East Local Government Area of
Edo State,
Nigeria and serves as the administrative headquarters of the
Owan East Local Government Area.[1][2]
History
The town's name is Afen- su -Uze (meaning the clan of Uze, a type of water cane). Its origins can be traced to be established by Imoigan, one of the descendants of Imah and Uzuanbi. Initially it was a farm camp later,its establishment served as a key trading center along the historic trans-regional trade routes of
West Africa.[3][4] These routes facilitated the exchange of goods such as
ivory,
spices, and
textiles, creating an economy that contributed to Afuze's growth.[5][6]
Historical records indicate that Afuze was a link in the trade network connecting the
Benin Kingdom with other West African societies, including the
Yoruba and
Igbo regions.[7] This strategic positioning facilitated cultural exchange and the sharing of ideas, influencing Afuze's identity.[8]
Afuze is positioned in the southern part of Edo State. The town's landscape is characterized by a combination of undulating terrain and regional vegetation.[10]
Demographics
Afuze has a
heterogeneous population consisting of several ethnic groups, some native to Edo State and others from different regions.[11] This diversity has been shaped by historical trade and migration patterns.[12]