Ekpede
In addition to the Uhanbọ, the Ekpede was also used by warriors in Benin and is likewise said to have been created by Ake, the deity of archery. Because the Ekpede could fire heavier arrows, it was an important weapon in warfare before the introduction of firearms by Portuguese traders. However, this interpretation has been disputed, with some scholars arguing that the crossbow was instead copied by the Edo from Portuguese examples. Furthermore, in depictions on the Emwin Arre (royal treasures), Edo warriors and hunters are shown using the Uhanbọ, while only Portuguese soldiers are depicted with the Ekpede .
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