His Royal Highness, King Koko, Mingi the VIII, King of the Brass People (Nembe) also known as the Amayanabo of Nembe was a significant figure in Nigerian history, particularly in the late 19th century. The Nembe Kingdom is located in the Niger Delta region, his reign is notable for its central role in the events leading up to the colonial confrontation between his kingdom and the British Empire.

As the Amayanabo, King Koko was primarily involved in the economic activities of his kingdom, which was heavily engaged in the palm oil and carnel trade. This trade was crucial not only for the economy of Nembe but also for the British who were increasingly dependent on palm oil as an industrial lubricant and for soap making. The strategic importance of this commodity placed Nembe and King Koko in a significant position in the eyes of the colonial powers.

The late 19th century was a period of intense colonial expansion in Africa, and the British were keen on exerting control over the lucrative trade routes and resources of the Niger Delta. King Koko initially engaged in trade agreements with the British but grew increasingly resistant as the Royal Niger Company, a British chartered company, sought to assert more control over the trade in the region.

His resistance against the British is marked by the famous incident in 1895, where King Koko led a revolt against the Royal Niger Company, attacking and burning down the company’s headquarters in Akassa. This act was a direct challenge to British authority and marked the beginning of a serious military conflict known as the Akassa Raid.

Despite his initial success, King Koko and his forces faced retaliation from the British military. The superior military technology and resources of the British eventually overpowered the resistance mounted by King Koko and his warriors. Following these events, King Koko went on self-exile, marking the end of his reign and the beginning of direct British control over the region.