- Ascension of weak rulers to Benin throne.
- The Benin Empire declined due to the loss of revenue as a result of the abolition of the slave trade.
- The diversion of trade from Ughoton to Badagry.
- Revolts by the vassal states.
- Tributes from the vassal states declined.
- Succession disputes within the Benin Dynasty.
- The Yoruba Civil Wars made it difficult for Benin traders to transport their products by land to the port of Lagos.
- The Fulani Jihad also contributed to the decline of Benin's economy.
- Agriculture also declined.
- British interference in the Benin affairs which led to the Benin massacre.