Court tradition records that the prince known as Ogun came to power after a period of exile and a bitter succession struggle, then took the royal name Ewuare.

His reign predates written records in Benin. Most of what is known comes from court and oral tradition, recorded centuries later, so dates are approximate.

Tradition credits Ewuare with rebuilding Benin City around a new palace, laying out its wards and broad avenues, and extending its system of earthen walls and moats (iya).

Archaeological surveys show the Benin earthworks were built over several centuries. Ewuare is remembered for major works within that longer history, not for building them all.

He is credited with reorganising the palace associations and the chiefly orders, which concentrated authority around the Oba. He also expanded the kingdom through military campaigns.

Several royal ceremonies, including aspects of the Igue festival, are traditionally traced to his reign.