In the mid-16th century, the kingdom of Ile-Ife and the Oyo Empire were engaged in a delicate power struggle that would shape Yoruba history for generations to come.
At the time, Oba Ogunjeemilooye ruled as the Ooni of Ife, while Oba Adeedigbolu led the powerful Oyo Empire. Though the Oyo had conquered vast territories, they remained under the central influence of Ile-Ife, the cultural and spiritual homeland of the Yoruba people.
Driven by ambition, the Alaafin of Oyo summoned his chiefs and expressed his desire to overthrow Ile-Ife and establish himself as the supreme ruler. The chiefs warned that such an act would be sacrilegious, as no one had ever dared to wage war against the sacred city.
Undeterred, the Alaafin devised a cunning plan. He sent a fully-grown bull to Ile-Ife, with the demand that the Ooni return the bull once it had given birth, bringing the calf along. This subtle provocation was intended to bait the Ooni into a conflict.
When the Ooni received the message, he was deeply troubled, understanding the underlying threat of war. As Oyo began mobilizing its forces, the people of Ile-Ife prepared to defend their hallowed land.
This pivotal moment in Yoruba history is encapsulated in the legendary adage “Omodé gbón – the Àgbà gbón. – L’afi dá Ilé-ifè,” which translates to “The youth is wise, the elder is wiser, but Ile-Ife is the foundation.” The adage reflects the wisdom and restraint of the Ooni in navigating this delicate situation, ultimately averting a catastrophic conflict that could have forever altered the course of Yoruba civilization.
