Synopsis:
When acting Consul Harry Johnston arrived in July 1887 to replace the ailing Consul Hewett, one thing was apparent-his dislike for Jaja.
On July 28th, 1887 (THE STORY OF JAJA.P.21) he held a meeting at Opobo, where Jaja and his chiefs, including, white traders were present. After much pressure and threat, Jaja admitted that he had an oath with the people of the interior market (Ndoki and Kwa lbo)-they “swore Juju” to trade exclusively with him and his people.
The headstrong consul Johnston would have none of this story and decided to visit Ohambele-which was one of Jaja’s or perhaps exclusive market in the Ndoki area. When he arrived at Ohambele, the people shunned him, as the village was deserted (THE STORY OF JAJA .P. 21). And he became angry with Jaja. On his return to Opobo, Mr. Johnston arrived with two naval officers Captain Hand and Captain Pelly, who met with the king and after much pressure, the Opobo king had to give up his claim of the Essene market (THE STORY OF JAJA .P. 22).
Not satisfied with the action Jaja to give up Essene, Consul Johnston threatened to bombard Opobo, and again Jaja agreed to sign another agreement on August 5th 1887 for free trade.
Jaja urged chief Ogolo to go break juju” with the interior markets to allow European traders access to the area. When Consul Johnston went back to Ohambele, he also found to his surprise that the people have not changed their stance with the Opobo people. And on his return he forbade all British subjects not to trade with Jaja or Opobo people (THE STORY OF JAJA .P. 22.)
Finally a breakthrough came for the consul when he visited Obaku and signed an agreement with the king, after inducing him with gifts an presents (THE STORY OF JAJA .P. 22.) Thereafter the consul made an order against Opobo monopoly in the Ndoki markets giving rights to the British traders to enter the area, while asking Jaja to surrender a beach at Ohambele.
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