Ologbosere ambushes British force near Benin

Background. Relations between the Kingdom of Benin and British officials deteriorated in the mid-1890s as British officials and European merchants pressed for greater access to Benin's markets and resources, and by 1896 senior Protectorate officers were openly considering Ovonramwen's removal. Nana's removal had alarmed the Oba, and Gallwey reported in 1896 that Ovonramwen had largely withdrawn from direct contact with Europeans since October 1894. A cable dated 8 January 1897 ordered the punitive operation postponed for another year, but Phillips had already been killed before the decision could take effect.

The Ambush. Phillips's party left Sapele on 2 January 1897. On 4 January, as the group approached Benin City, the Oba continued trying to restrain the war party after the visitors' baggage had been inspected and found not to contain firearms. A group of Benin chiefs, despite objections attributed to Ovonramwen, attacked the party near Ugbine and killed Phillips and most of its European members. The Sapele District Commissioner learned of Phillips's death on 7 January, and the report reached London on 10 January 1897.

Retaliatory Expedition. The ambush prompted the British Admiralty to appoint Rear-Admiral Harry Rawson to lead an invasion force. The expedition began on 9 February 1897, occupying Benin City after sustained resistance. The capital was put to the torch, and substantial parts of the palace were destroyed. Sacred and royal art, including Benin Bronzes, was removed as booty, with portions sold at auction in London to pay for the expedition.