By Tayo Ajibade
When one invokes the name of the Alaafin, it invariably conjures images and reflections pertaining to a pivotal chapter in the annals of African history, particularly concerning the remarkable leadership dynamics Oyo Empire.
This illustrious polity, which transitioned from a modest kingdom to a formidable empire, predominantly flourished between the 11th century and the late 18th century.
The Oyo Empire’s rise to preeminence was characterized by its military prowess, economic sophistication, and an intricate social structure that has drawn the attention of historians and scholars alike. It is vital to note that had it not been for the intervention of the British colonial forces, vast swathes of Western Africa and even segments of Europe might have recognized the authority and sovereignty of the Alaafin’s throne.
The Oyo Empire’s expansionist ambitions made it a formidable entity, capable of posing significant threats to even the British Empire, which sought to control and dominate trade routes and resources in the region.
The envy and apprehension harbored by the British toward the Oyo thus served as a pivotal catalyst for colonial confrontation.
Indeed, the empire, which stretched its influence from Katunga, situated in present-day Niger State, to Dahomey, now recognized as the modern-day Benin Republic, further extending to Aflaho in Togo and reaching into portions of the Gold Coast, present-day Ghana, exemplified a sophisticated network of political and military stratagems that not only secured its territorial integrity but also facilitated its ambitions on the international stage.
The genesis of the Oyo Empire can be traced back to its illustrious founder, Oranyan, whose lineage is deeply rooted in the legendary figure of Oduduwa, a revered icon in Yoruba mythology. Oranyan, both a formidable warlord and a prince, laid the groundwork for what would evolve into one of the most influential empires in West African history. Initially emerging as a smaller polity during the 11th to 15th centuries, the Oyo kingdom engaged in various military campaigns against external adversaries, firmly establishing its presence in a region marked by diverse tribal entities and competing powers.
As historical consensus suggests, these military endeavors were not merely acts of territorial acquisition; they were integral to the empire’s sustained growth and influence.
The ironies of the Alaafin’s throne, therefore, not only encapsulate the grandeur of its reign but also reflect the intricate interplay of power and colonial ambition that defined the era. Through both triumph and adversity, the legacy of the Alaafin and the Oyo Empire serves as a profound reminder of the complexities inherent in the narratives of leadership and authority in the long tapestry of African history.
The Alaafin ruled Yorubaland for over 500 years, from the 12th to the mid-18th century, exerting significant control across the region. It is unlikely that any area of Yorubaland escaped taxation from the Alaafin. Nigeria’s pre-colonial political system consists of three primary ethnic groups: the Hausas, Igbos, and Yorubas. Originally, the Alaafin and his people, known as the Oyos, were exclusively identified as Yorubas.back then. some parts of remo and Ijesas are also historically linked to the Alaafin, while the Egbas suffered greatly under his reign until they mounted a fierce resistance, led by the determined Lisabi, a farmer and hunter. They fought valiantly for liberation from Alaafin’s oppression.
As significant as the Alaafin throne is, never a stool a prince would not be interested in when vacant. In the olden days, especially in Africa, if anyone contests to be a king and such a prince eventually loses out, 95% of such people would become useless for the rest of their lives. Some run mad or become financially incapacitated, and some might even die of high blood pressure as a result of overthinking. In fact, we have seen a prince who committed suicide due to such an issue.
However, the installation of the new Alaafin, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Hakeem Owoade the First, has paved the way for another prince and a major contestant from the same royal family.
Prince Kolade Afeez Siyanbola Oladigbolu, a first cousin to the new Alaafin, has broken a new record. This is the first time this is happening in the history of monarchy in the whole world. Even in the British Empire, we all knew how it all began during the ascension of the late Queen Elizabeth of England. It has always been like that.
The new king always sees the other contestants as their rivals; that’s why in those days, those who lost always had to evacuate the town for fresh air to reach the nose of the new king.
Things seem to have changed. The first contestant to congratulate the new Alaafin was Prince Kolade Afeez Siyanbola Oladigbolu. I doubt if others have done so publicly. The young prince went straight to the palace, prostrated properly, and paid homage to the new Alaafin. This is the first time in the history of Yoruba-land. In the same way, former President Goodluck Jonathan congratulated his successor, former President Muhammad Buhari. Let other royal homes across Yoruba-land emulate the new record-breaking prince from the Oyo dynasty. The young prince deserves an award.