Omoba Aina (Sarah Forbes Bonetta, later Davies) (1843-1880)

The Inspiring Tale of a Royal Captive

Black Wall St. MediaContributor

Introduction:

History is replete with stories of remarkable individuals whose lives serve as a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

One such captivating tale is that of Omoba Aina, more commonly known as Sarah Forbes Bonetta and later as Sarah Forbes Bonetta Davies. Born in 1843, she was a royal captive from the Yoruba kingdom in what is now modern-day Nigeria.

Aina’s extraordinary journey from enslavement to becoming a prominent figure in Victorian England is an awe-inspiring narrative of resilience, intelligence, and grace.

Early Life and Capture:

Aina was born into the royal family of the Egbado clan in what is now Ogun State, Nigeria. Her given name, Omoba Aina, meant “the first female child born to the king.”

However, her peaceful existence was tragically disrupted when she was just a child. In 1848, her village was attacked by King Gezo of Dahomey, a notorious slave trader. Aina’s parents were killed during the raid, and she was captured along with other survivors.

Enslavement and Fortunate Encounter:

As fate would have it, Aina’s life took an unexpected turn when she became a prized possession of King Gezo himself. Recognizing her regal bearing and intelligence, the king saw an opportunity to present her as a “gift” to Captain Frederick Forbes of the Royal Navy, who was visiting Dahomey on a mission to abolish the transatlantic slave trade.

Forbes, deeply moved by Aina’s plight, decided to intervene and negotiated her release.

Aina’s British Education:

Captain Forbes named her Sarah Forbes Bonetta, after his ship, the HMS Bonetta. He decided to take her to England and presented her as a “gift” to Queen Victoria.

To Forbes’ astonishment, the queen agreed to take Sarah under her protection and arranged for her education. Sarah quickly learned to speak fluent English, excelled in academics, and impressed the British elite with her intelligence and poise.

Marriage and Later Life:

As Sarah Forbes Bonetta blossomed into a young woman, her captivating personality caught the attention of James Pinson Labulo Davies, a wealthy Yoruba businessman residing in England.

The couple eventually married, and Sarah became Sarah Forbes Bonetta Davies. Despite her prestigious position, Sarah faced personal tragedy when she lost her first child and later suffered from ill health herself.

Legacy and Impact:

Sarah Forbes Bonetta Davies left an indelible mark on Victorian society and continues to inspire generations to this day. Her life challenged the prevailing stereotypes of her time, proving that intelligence and dignity were not bound by race or social status. As a Black woman in the heart of the British Empire, Sarah became an icon of resilience and strength, showcasing the power of education and personal growth.

Furthermore, Sarah’s story shed light on the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade, prompting discussions on abolition and human rights. Her presence in British high society forced many to confront the inhumanity and injustice of slavery, contributing to the eventual demise of this abhorrent practice.

Conclusion:

Omoba Aina, known as Sarah Forbes Bonetta and later Sarah Forbes Bonetta Davies, is an emblem of resilience, triumph, and the pursuit of education.

Her remarkable journey from a captive in Dahomey to a cherished guest of Queen Victoria is a testament to the extraordinary potential that lies within every human being.

Sarah’s legacy endures as a symbol of hope and empowerment for individuals facing adversity, inspiring future generations to persevere in the face of obstacles.

Her story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of circumstances, the human spirit.