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The Yoruba kingdoms are known for their ancient roots, famous leaders, and unique ways of ruling. These Yoruba kingdoms—like Ife, Oyo, and Ketu—share a history and strong cultural ties. At the centre of their heritage is the adé ìlękę, or beaded crown, a symbol of royal power. This special crown connects the Yoruba kings to their ancestors, especially Odùduwà, the legendary father of the Yoruba people.
Ife bronze head (possibly depicting Oduduwa)
The story of these kingdoms begins with Odùduwà, who ruled in the Ile-Ife empire, often called the “cradle” of Yoruba civilization. Tradition says Odùduwà brought the adé ìlękę to Ife as a symbol of his authority. As new Yoruba kingdoms formed, they adopted this crown to show their connection to Ife and Odùduwà’s legacy.
As Odùduwà’s descendants spread out, they carried Yoruba kingship to new lands. When they established Yoruba kingdoms, they wore the adé ìlękę to show their link to Ife and Odùduwà. Even neighboring kingdoms like Benin claimed ties to Ife, telling stories of how their dynasties followed the “Odùduwà experiment”—a vision of a united kingdom with rituals tied to Ile-Ife.
Yoruba kingdoms developed in three stages: first came “primary” states closely linked to Ile-Ife, which then inspired “secondary” states, eventually forming more new power centers over the centuries. While only Oyo and Benin have fully recorded histories, many others formed later, each building its unique culture and traditions.
Although each Yoruba kingdom was different, they saw each other as family, all descendants of Odùduwà. Many rulers looked to the Òòni of Ife as a father figure and treated each other like siblings. This kinship connected the kingdoms, helping them work together and share traditions. Kings sent messengers to Ife for important events like coronations, showing respect for their shared roots. These bonds helped keep the Yoruba kingdoms united, even as each developed its own identity and way of ruling.
Ife Head, relic of the royal cult of an ancient Ooni of Ile-Ife and heraldic symbol of Ife royalty
In this article, we’ll look at the history and culture of 20 major Yoruba kingdoms, exploring their rulers, political systems, and special contributions to Yoruba heritage.
1. Ile-Ife
Ile-Ife holds a special place in Yoruba culture as the birthplace of the Yoruba people. According to legend, it was here that Odùduwà, the first Yoruba king, brought the scattered communities together, building the foundation of kingship and unity. The Òòni, the ruler of Ife is the spiritual leader of all Yoruba people, carrying a legacy symbolized by his beaded crown, or adé ìlękę. This crown connects each Yoruba king back to Odùduwà, reminding all Yoruba of their shared roots.
Ife is also famous for its beautiful artifacts, especially the bronze and terracotta heads that reflect the early skill and sophistication of its people. These art pieces aren’t just decorations—they represent the kingdom’s early dedication to both art and religion. Through this “sacred kingship,” Ife set an example that would inspire other Yoruba kingdoms.
Ile Ife Mythology
The story of Ife’s beginnings goes back to small, scattered communities known as “house societies” around the middle of the first millennium BCE. These groups grew and eventually joined into larger “mega houses” or mini-states, creating a confederacy in response to competition for resources. Conflicts continued as the population expanded, but during this time, a powerful leader named Odùduwà emerged. He and his people likely came from a settlement called Oke Ora and built a large wall around their territory between the 10th and 11th centuries, marking the heart of Ilé-Ifè.
This move led to a clash with another group, led by Obatálá, who represented the original people of Ife. Odùduwà’s group eventually won, establishing a new era for Ife. After their deaths, both Odùduwà and Obatálá were remembered as spiritual figures and became part of the Yoruba pantheon of gods.
According to tradition, following Odùduwà’s victory, a great meeting took place at Ita Ijero in Ile-Ife. Odùduwà’s descendants—many of whom were princes and leaders—agreed to venture out and form their Yoruba kingdoms, like Benin and Oyo. They promised to stay connected as siblings and to honor their origin in Ife.
One famous story involves the kingdom of Benin. Around the 1200s, the people of Benin invited a Yoruba prince named Oranmiyan to help them establish a new dynasty, replacing the old Ogiso rule. Oranmiyan became their leader, giving Benin a fresh start, even changing its name to Ile-Ibinu, which eventually became the well-known name, “Benin.”
2. Oyo
The Oyo Empire was the most powerful Yoruba kingdom, known for its military might and structured governance. The Aláàfin, or king, was assisted by the Oyo Mesi, a council of seven chiefs who held significant influence and could even challenge the king’s power. This council ensured a balanced rule, preventing any one person from becoming too powerful.
Oyo Empire
Oyo’s strength came from its cavalry, soldiers on horseback who conquered vast territories. This military strength allowed Oyo to expand widely, dominating regions beyond Yoruba land and making it one of West Africa’s most formidable empires.
3. Ketu
Ketu, in present-day Benin, is a proud centre of Yoruba heritage. Known for keeping ancient Yoruba customs alive, Ketu holds onto spiritual beliefs. Its king, the Alákétu is a respected cultural guide. In Ketu, the deity Esu, known as a trickster and messenger, is especially important, and people show great respect for him. This strong devotion to Esu and other Yoruba gods has helped Ketu preserve its roots for centuries.
Ketu’s history goes back to the children of Odùduwà. Though often less talked about today, Ketu is one of the original twenty Yoruba kingdoms, marking its place in Yoruba history.
Ketu’s relationship with the Oyo Empire is still debated. Some say Ketu was a loyal ally, paying tribute and attending the Bere festival in Oyo, while others say it stayed more independent. However, Ketu and Oyo shared close ties of language, culture, and history, keeping friendly relations.
Over the years, Ketu had its struggles, especially with the Dahomey kingdom, which often clashed with Ketu as it grew. Ketu joined Oyo in battles against Dahomey, but in the 1880s, Dahomey’s forces finally defeated Ketu. This led to many Ketu people being captured and sent to the Americas as slaves. In Brazil, Ketu’s traditions lived on through Candomblé, a religion rooted in Yoruba beliefs, where Ketu is still remembered as “Queto.”
4. Sabe
Sabe, near present-day Benin, is a Yoruba kingdom famous for its peaceful way of ruling. Instead of going to war, Sabe’s leaders focused on friendship and solving problems through talks. This helped Sabe stay stable and wealthy while other Yoruba kingdoms often faced battles.
The rulers of Sabe, called the Oníşábę, were respected for their wisdom and their link to Odùduwà, the legendary ancestor of the Yoruba. This connection made Sabe’s leaders like family to other Yoruba kings, creating strong alliances. In Yoruba, “Oba” means “king,” but in Sabe, the title “Oníşábę” gave their kings a special honour.
While Sabe’s history isn’t fully documented, we know of many rulers who kept Sabe steady and united. Starting with Ola Obe in 1738, leaders like Ola Monen and Oba Akikenju continued Sabe’s tradition of peace. In the 1900s, Oba Adeyemi and Oba Ademoyegun upheld Sabe’s values of diplomacy.
Today, Oba Adetutu Akenmu, the current Oníşábę, carries on this legacy of peaceful leadership, making Sabe a symbol of harmony and cooperation.
5. Ijebu
The Ijebu kingdom, with its coastal location, became a major Yoruba trading hub. Led by the Awujale, its ruler, Ijebu built an economy based on trade in goods like salt, ivory, and cloth. Rather than focusing on war, Ijebu chose to build strong trade networks, exchanging goods with nearby communities and welcoming European traders by sea. This made Ijebu an important link between inland Yoruba kingdoms and the outside world.
Ijebu Ode Brass Face Bell
Ijebu’s wealth showed its business skills and stable government. Its capital, Ijebu Ode, was the center of authority, where the Awujale ruled alongside the Osugbo council, similar to the Ogboni in other Yoruba areas. The Osugbo, divided into ranks, acted as Ijebu’s court system, with the iwarefa and its head, the Oliwa, holding great influence. The Olisa managed the town’s daily affairs, much like a mayor.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ijebu’s influence grew as it controlled trade routes between Lagos and Ibadan. Ijebu required all trade in its region to go through its merchants, bringing great wealth but frustrating European traders. In 1892, the British, upset by Ijebu’s trade barriers, declared war on this Yoruba kingdom. Equipped with powerful Maxim guns, the British defeated Ijebu’s forces, captured Ijebu Ode, and destroyed the Osugbo council’s meeting hall, marking the end of Ijebu’s trade control.
6. Egba
The Egba people, living in Abeokuta (“under the rock”), are known for their strength and unity. Abeokuta became a place of refuge for various Yoruba groups fleeing conflict. The Egba developed a council system to represent different clans, with the Alake as their paramount ruler. This council structure emphasized community over individual power, creating a sense of solidarity.
Abeokuta
Abeokuta’s unity made it a symbol of resilience and cooperation, with its people highly protective of their shared heritage.
7. Ijesha
The Ijesha kingdom, based in Ilesha, is famous for its creativity in arts and crafts. The Owa Obokun, the king of Ijesha, has always promoted the kingdom’s artistic traditions. The Ijesha people are known for their beadwork, music, and cultural celebrations, making Ilesha a center for Yoruba art and culture.
Ijesha’s artistic contributions have made it a vital part of Yoruba heritage, adding beauty and meaning to the culture.
8. Ondo
Ondo, near the coast, is a Yoruba kingdom known for fishing, farming, and trade. Its location allowed access to important trade routes, blending different cultures that shaped its unique customs. The ruler, called the Osemawe, oversees a community where agriculture and fishing support the local economy. The Ondo people are proud of their traditions, influenced by their coastal heritage.
The Ondo Kingdom dates back over 500 years and was founded by Princess Pupupu, one of the twins of Alafin Oluaso. After her mother, Queen Olu, passed away, Pupupu’s son, Airo, continued the family’s rule, strengthening Ondo’s legacy.
Ondo Fishing
Between 1865 and 1885, Ondo faced wars that led people to take refuge in Oke Opa. During this time, three Osemawes were installed and passed away, marking a difficult period for this Yoruba kingdom. Eventually, the leaders settled in Odi Lotu Omooba at Oke Otunba, led by Prince Olotu Omooba.
Today, Ondo is led by Oba Adesimbo Victor Kiladejo, JILO III, the 44th Osemawe. Though his role is mostly symbolic, he remains a respected figure. The kingdom is governed by six high-ranking chiefs, including the Lisa and Jomo, who maintain Ondo’s traditions and oversee important festivals like the Obaliyen and Agemo.
9. Ekiti
Ekiti is a region with several independent kingdoms, each led by its own Oba (king). The Ekiti people are proud of their warrior heritage and love for their land. Although each town operates independently, the Ekiti come together to protect their region during times of conflict. This unity among independent towns reflects Ekiti’s strong sense of identity and resilience.
10. Egbado
The Egbado people, now part of Ogun State, built their economy around trade. The Olofin, the Egbado ruler, encouraged commerce, focusing on stability and peace over military pursuits. Egbado became a key trading area, attracting merchants and craftsmen and contributing to Yoruba commerce.
11. Igbomina
The Igbomina kingdom in northern Yorubaland is known for its peaceful and cooperative ways. The leader, called the Òba’lẹ of Igbomina, allowed local leaders to have a say in decisions, making Igbomina a balanced and adaptable Yoruba kingdom where community voices mattered.
Igbomina also has a rich history with some mysteries. Near Esie, archaeologists found over 800 carved stone figures from around 1100 AD, but no one knows who made them. These sculptures hint at an ancient civilization with artistic skills and offer a glimpse into the early life of Igbomina.
The Igbomina people were well-established even before the famous Oduduwa era. Archaeological finds and oral stories reveal that they had dynasties and were likely one of the oldest groups in the region. While they had peaceful relations with neighbors like the Nupe, there were times of conflict over land, with Igbomina gaining and losing territory.
Defense was a big focus for the Igbomina. Instead of conquering others, they built strong walls, ramparts, and even stone barriers to protect their land. Some fortified areas, like Gbagede and Iyara, had massive mud walls and deep ditches, while hilltop sites had carefully placed rocks that gave defenders an advantage.
In the 1840s, however, the peaceful Igbomina faced trouble. The Fulani armies from Ilorin invaded, forcing many Igbomina leaders into submission under the Sokoto Caliphate. This takeover made them lose much of their independence.
By 1875, Ibadan fought back against Ilorin, reclaiming Igbomina lands. But Ibadan’s harsh rule soon caused frustration. This led the Igbomina and nearby allies to unite in a group called the Ekitiparapo, determined to fight for their freedom and independence.
12. Ikorodu
Ikorodu, located near Lagos, grew as a center of industry and craftsmanship. The Ayangburen, Ikorodu’s ruler, promoted trade and artisanal work, making Ikorodu an economic hub. Its proximity to Lagos allowed it to flourish in trade and industry.
13. Akure
Akure is a Yoruba kingdom famous for its rich lands and strong farming traditions. Blessed with fertile soil, Akure thrived on agriculture, which made it largely self-sufficient and allowed trade with nearby kingdoms. The Deji of Akure, the kingdom’s ruler, encouraged farming, ensuring the people had plenty of food and resources.
Archaeologists have found evidence of ancient life around Akure, like the Iwo Eleru skull near Isarun, showing that humans lived here thousands of years ago. Before becoming a Yoruba kingdom, the area was home to small, independent settlements, ancestors of the Ekiti people. These communities, such as Upalefa and Igan, resisted being united, similar to early Ife.
Akure’s journey as a kingdom began with Prince Omoremilekun, a brave hunter and descendant of Oduduwa, the legendary Yoruba ancestor. Leaving Ile-Ife, he passed a nine-day test of isolation and eventually reached Akure, where he united the separate communities. Today, this test is remembered in the ‘Oba wo ilesunta’ ceremony.
Omoremilekun, also known as “Asodeboyede” (“the one who arrived with royalty”), worked with local leaders like Omoloju to form the kingdom. Although he became Akure’s first king, some leaders were slow to fully accept him. As a sign of this, he didn’t wear royal beads, showing that trust and unity took time.
The name “Akure” is said to come from Omoloju’s beaded necklace snapping while he was clearing farmland. People shouted “Àkún rẹ!” meaning “The beads have snapped!” giving the kingdom its name. Omoloju, also called Alakure, ruled for 20 more years after Asodeboyede’s death, but future kings came from Asodeboyede’s line, creating a royal legacy still honored today.
14. Epe
Epe, a coastal Yoruba kingdom, is famous for fishing and trade. The Olu-Epe, its ruler, led a community that prospered through fishing, which brought both wealth and cultural exchanges. Epe was once called Igbo Obo, meaning “Forest of Monkeys,” and its story begins with hunters from Ijebu, led by Urankaloye, or Uraka.
According to legend, Uraka’s journey was guided by an Ifa oracle, telling him to travel south, crossing rivers until he reached the sea. After crossing several rivers, Uraka stopped at Poka and then reached a place called Etita, where he saw smoke from a nearby forest. Following the smoke, he met fishermen named Opute, Lugbasa, Alaro, and Ogunmodede. These fishermen, especially Alaro and Ogunmodede, became important figures in Epe’s culture, with Epe’s people later calling themselves “Omo Epe Alaro Ogunmodede.”
Uraka moved deeper into the forest, calling it Oko-Eepe, or “Forest of Black Ants,” but found hunting there hard due to the ants. Over time, “Eepe” became the name of the town, later shortened to Epe. The area grew quickly, with communities like Areke and Apakeji forming nearby.
In the late 1700s, an Ijebu prince, Obaloja, settled in Epe and took the title Oloja, making Epe a large, peaceful town by 1810. However, Epe faced challenges too. In 1848, the Makun-Omi-Epe war took place, and in 1851, Epe offered refuge to King Kosoko of Lagos and his 1,500 followers after they were driven out by the British.
15. Ado-Ekiti
Ado-Ekiti, a prominent Ekiti kingdom, is led by the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti. Known for its cultural celebrations, Ado-Ekiti has become a center for the Ekiti people’s history and traditions, representing their shared identity.
16. Iwo
The Oluwo of Iwo leads a kingdom renowned for its natural beauty and agricultural resources. Iwo’s lush landscapes have made it a center for farming, adding to its reputation as a peaceful, scenic Yoruba kingdom.
17. Ila-Orangun
Ila-Orangun is known for its loyalty to Yoruba customs. The Orangun of Ila leads a community that values unity and respect for tradition, strengthening its place within Yoruba culture.
18. Ogbomoso
Ogbomoso, in the Oyo region, is known for its bravery and strength. Led by the Soun, Ogbomoso became a united community that defended itself against many invaders, making it a proud symbol of Yoruba resilience.
The town’s story begins with Ọlábánjọ Ògúnlọlá Ògúndìran, a hunter of Ibariba descent, and his wife, Esuu. They built their first home near an Àjàgbọn tree. Ogunlola soon noticed smoke rising from nearby and found other hunters living close by. Instead of staying apart, he gathered them to form the Alongo Society, a group focused on defense, hunting, and supporting each other.
The Alongo Society quickly became the heart of Ogbomoso. Each day after hunting, the group met at Ogunlola’s hut, sharing meals of beans and sekete, a drink Esuu made from guinea corn. These gatherings helped them bond and plan the town’s defense.
Esuu also strengthened Ogbomoso’s spirit by introducing the worship of Orisapopo, a powerful deity. Worshippers wore white beads and clothing, creating a shared spiritual identity for the community. Orisapopo, meaning “idol by the highway,” became Ogbomoso’s patron Òrìṣà, uniting the people in faith and courage.
By 1891, Ogbomoso was a well-protected town with high walls and secure gates. Warriors from Ogbomoso and Ikirun worked together, using the town’s walls and moats to guard against threats. With these defenses and its strong people, Ogbomoso remained a powerful force in Yorubaland.
19. Badagry
Badagry, along the coast, became a key trade center, especially with European merchants. The Akran of Badagry managed relations with foreign traders, turning Badagry into a thriving cultural and commercial exchange point.
Badagry
20. Idanre
Idanre, known for its mountains, is led by the Owa of Idanre. The kingdom’s unique landscape and sacred sites make it a place of natural beauty and spiritual significance, enhancing Yoruba culture’s diversity.
Idanre Hills
Emergence of the Western Yoruba Dynastic Groups
The Western Yoruba kingdoms, like Şábę and Kétu, have roots in early migrations that spread Yoruba culture beyond Ile-Ife. These kingdoms’ stories reveal how Yoruba traditions and power grew across new lands.
After splitting from the Aláàfin at Òkè-Ǫyán, the Oníşábe stayed with the Aláàfin in Ìgbòho before moving to Borgu, where he founded Şábę. This period marked a time when the Yoruba sought new lands and formed new alliances.
By the 1500s, the region faced threats from the Nupe kingdom near the Niger River. The Nupe attacks forced many Yoruba, including their leaders, to flee. The Aláàfin and his people took refuge in Borgu, staying in a town called ‘Gbére,’ meaning “a place to stay.” This became a place for the Yoruba.
When Onígbogí, the Aláàfin at that time, died, his successor, Òfinràn, aimed to retake Òyó-Ilé. Though they weren’t yet strong enough to do so, he kept his people active by organizing raids with the Ìbààbá. But, his actions led to more conflict, pushing the Yoruba further into Yorubaland.
Around the mid-1500s, the Songhai Empire attacked Borgu, causing chaos. The Aláàfin Egunojú led his people through various locations to escape the unrest, finally settling in Ìgbòho, which became their temporary capital. Here, four Aláàfins ruled in exile, until Abípa finally reclaimed Òyó-Ilé around 1610.
During these moves, the Şábę and Kétu groups likely traveled south with the Aláàfin, setting up their communities. Şábę’s story includes Şóipàsán, a leader who died at their first settlement, Áró, where his nephew, Owé, took charge, showing how these groups held onto both old and new loyalties.
The migrations of Şábę, Kétu, and others show the Yoruba’s resilience and adaptability. Linked to Ile-Ife, these kingdoms embraced local cultures, creating unique traditions while keeping their Yoruba roots.
Conclusion
Contrary to the belief that all Yoruba kingdoms sprang directly from Ile-Ife’s influence, many Western Yoruba dynasties like Kétu, Şábę, and Ìdáìşá were born from migrations and expansions led by the Òyó people. These dynasties took shape around the 16th century, following the sack of Òyó-Ilé, and with the fusion of many smaller communities, they became united political entities. This shared experience of displacement and migration enriched Yoruba traditions, creating the strong, interconnected Yoruba kingdoms that have marked Yoruba history for centuries.
References
List of rulers of the Yoruba state of Sabe – Wikipedia
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