A Brief History of the Egba People

Yoruba history, History, Storytelling, Courage, Bravery, Strategy, Egba, Lisabi, Olumo-Rock

The Egba People: A Chronicle of Courage, Culture, and Progress

Introduction

The Egba people, a proud subgroup of the Yoruba ethnic group, have made profound contributions to Nigeria's cultural, political, and economic landscape. Their journey from subjugation under the mighty Oyo Empire to the creation of their independent city-state, Abeokuta, has been one marked by resilience, resistance, and cultural innovation. At the heart of the Egba's identity is their connection to Olumo Rock, the founding of Abeokuta, their pivotal role in historical conflicts, and their enduring legacy in the arts, particularly through Adire—the distinctive Yoruba form of tie-and-dye fabric.

 

Origins: The Cradle of Egba Civilization

The Egba people trace their ancestry to Oranyan, a son of Oduduwa, the mythical progenitor of the Yoruba people. Initially, the Egba lived in Orile-Itoko, a cluster of villages under the powerful Oyo Empire. They were distinguished by their agricultural productivity and craftsmanship, contributing to the empire’s wealth through the tribute system administered by the Ilaris, the Oyo emissaries.

The Egba’s collective identity evolved over centuries, marked by their adherence to traditional Yoruba governance structures, including lineage-based leadership and the significant role of the Ogboni Council in community decision-making.

 

Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala: The Liberator

The 18th century brought a seismic shift in Egba history with the rise of Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, a warrior and strategist from Igbehin. Recognizing the growing discontent among the Egba, Lisabi organized the Egbe Aaro, a mutual aid society that served as a covert resistance movement. In a dramatic and coordinated uprising in 1780, Lisabi and his followers killed over 600 Ilaris, effectively ending Oyo's dominance over the Egba.

This act of defiance not only liberated the Egba but also hastened the decline of the Oyo Empire. Lisabi’s heroics remain etched in Egba lore, and annual celebrations such as Lisabi Day honour his contributions to their freedom.

 

The Struggle for Survival and Migration

The fall of the Oyo Empire exposed the Egba to new threats, including raids by the Dahomey Kingdom and Ibadan warriors. These adversaries, empowered by the transatlantic slave trade, targeted Egba settlements for captives, forcing the people into a cycle of displacement and suffering.

Between 1825 and 1830, the Egba sought divine guidance from the Ifa Oracle, which directed them to relocate to the area around Olumo Rock. Led by Chief Sodeke, the Egba embarked on a perilous migration that culminated in the establishment of Abeokuta in 1830. The name “Abeokuta,” meaning “Under the Rock,” reflects the sanctuary provided by Olumo Rock, a natural fortress that shielded the Egba from external threats.

 

The Founding of Abeokuta

Abeokuta became the epicenter of Egba civilization, offering both physical and spiritual protection. The settlement was a melting pot of Egba subgroups—Alake, Oke Ona, Gbagura, and later Owu—each retaining its leadership while contributing to a collective governance structure.

Olumo Rock served as a watchtower and a sanctuary, allowing the Egba to spot and repel invaders. The rock also housed caves that were used as hideouts during wartime. Over time, it became a spiritual symbol, celebrated in songs and annual festivals.

 

Cultural Identity and Heritage

The Egba’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in their traditions, from their attire to their cuisine and artistic expressions:

Cuisine: Lafu (white amala) with Ewedu soup is a staple dish, alongside wara (cottage cheese).

Facial Marks: The Egba are recognized by their Abaja Oro facial marks—three vertical lines on each cheek.

Adire

The Adire fabric is a cornerstone of Egba culture and stands as a living testament to their artistic ingenuity. Adire, a traditional Yoruba form of tie-and-dye textile, has been an integral part of Egba life for centuries. The craft of making Adire fabric in Itoku Market in Abeokuta is a symbol of the Egba's creative spirit. The process of making Adire involves tying fabric into intricate patterns, and then dyeing it with indigo or other natural dyes. The designs vary, often representing personal, communal, or spiritual symbols.

Historically, the dyeing of Adire fabric was not only a form of artistic expression but also a trade and economic activity for the Egba. Adire weaving became a source of livelihood, particularly for women, who were the primary artisans. The introduction of chemical dyes in the early 20th century by Malian traders accelerated the production process, increasing its popularity and cementing Abeokuta’s place as the center of Adire production in Nigeria.

Adire's significance goes beyond fashion—its patterns tell stories of cultural heritage, community bonds, and the Egba people's resilience. Many Adire patterns are passed down through generations and are worn during significant cultural events, including Lisabi Day, weddings, and other traditional ceremonies.

 

Their anthem, the Egba National Anthem, reflects their pride and unity:

Egba Anthem:

Lori oke o’un petele 

Ibe l’agbe bi mi si o 

Ibe l’agbe to mi d’agba oo 

Ile ominira 

 

Chorus: 

Maa yo, maa yo, maa yo o; l’Ori Olumo 

Maa yo, maa yo, maa yo o; l’Ori Olumo 

Abeokuta ilu Egba 

Un ko nii gbagbe e re 

Un o gbe o l’eke okan mi 

Bii ilu odo oya 

Emi o f’Abeokuta sogo 

Un o duro l’ori Olumo 

Maayo l’oruko Egba ooo 

Emi omoo Lisabi E e