Defending the Throne: Ọ̀yọ́’s Legacy, History, and the Unyielding Pride of Yoruba Heritage” 🌟
Kaabiyesi, Aláàfin Ọ̀yọ́, Iku Baba Yeye,
Your adversaries say the Ọ̀yọ́ Empire is dead, yet they parade themselves as “Imperial Majesties.” I ask them: where is their empire? Can an empire that never existed claim more legitimacy than one whose legacy shaped history, borders, language, and power? A fallen empire is still real; a fabricated one is nothing but illusion. To claim imperial authority without an empire is the highest form of fraud.
The Ọ̀yọ́ Empire, founded in the 14th century by Oranyan, was a beacon of power and civilization in West Africa. It was a hub of commerce, culture, and politics, with a sophisticated system of governance that influenced the Yoruba people and beyond. The empire’s legacy lives on through its contributions to Yoruba culture, language, and traditions.
They tell us to stop speaking of our empire. I ask them: can they stop speaking of their ancestors? Can a people abandon their lineage and still exist? History is not a burden; it is the root from which identity grows. They say all we have is history. I ask them: are their own thrones not founded on history? Is any crown born without memory? A throne without history is a chair; a throne with history is a kingdom.
Kaabiyesi, continue to guard the throne of your forefathers with dignity and restraint. Ẹlẹ́dùmarè stands with you. You do not need to descend into quarrels, for those who provoke you lack the moral, historical, and spiritual strength to confront you. The children of Ọ̀yọ́ stand firmly behind their king.
They accuse you of seeking supremacy. I challenge them: let them show one word, one interview, one action of yours that suggests such ambition. They cannot. What you defend is not supremacy, but heritage; not conquest, but continuity; not domination, but dignity. Your ancestors walk with you. Ọ̀yọ́ will not fall. You will not fall. Those who speak with arrogance today will soon bow before truth, history, and destiny.
Kaabiyesi o.
HIM Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I
Written by Prince Ayobami Sanda Ladigbolu, PhD.
Orídọta Compound, Ọ̀yọ́.
Reported by Ajisebi Oyo Radio