The play centers on the tragic downfall of the Benin Empire under the rule of Oba Ovonramwen, precipitated by the encroaching colonial interests of the British Empire. The protagonist, Oba Ovonramwen, attempts to navigate the complex political landscape of the late 19th century while balancing traditional sovereignty against the aggressive expansionism of foreign powers. His objective is to maintain the integrity and autonomy of his kingdom, yet he faces insurmountable opposition from colonial administrators and internal dissenters. The narrative unfolds through a dramatic structure that highlights the inevitable collision between indigenous governance and imperial ambition.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the play's effectiveness in humanizing a historical figure often reduced to a colonial footnote. Discussion often centers on Rotimi's ability to balance the grandeur of the Benin court with the intimate, personal failures of its leader. Many observers note that the pacing effectively builds tension as the inevitability of the British invasion becomes clear. The work is widely regarded for its linguistic richness and its commitment to reclaiming historical narratives from an indigenous perspective. Scholars often point to the play as a foundational text for understanding the intersection of post-colonial identity and traditional history.