Kiriji war re-echoes after 130 years

Map of Western Nigeria

Echoes of the Kiriji war between Ibadan and Ekiti Parapos, which ended on September 23, 1886 resonated again, last week, as prominent sons and daughters of Yorubaland including traditional rulers gathered at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, to review what led to the war and the lessons the South West geopolitical zone should learn from it.

The centenary anniversary with the theme: “Celebrating Yoruba in the past, present and future”, was jointly organised by the Yoruba Academy and the Afenifere Renewal Group, ARG.

The treaty entitled: ‘The Proclamation of Peace at Kiriji-Mesan’ was signed by Henry Higgins, Oliver Smith. Among those who signed the treaty were the Alaafin of Oyo, his chiefs, Owa of Ilesa and his chiefs, Awujale of Ijebuland and his chiefs.

In attendance at the epoch-making event were representatives of Governors Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State; Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State and Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State.

Others included the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Chief Yetunde Onanuga; Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Alhaji Olalekan Alli; chairman, Afenifere Renewal Group, Mr. Wale Oshun; Dr. Charles Akinola; Special Adviser to Osun State Governor, Architect Muyiwa Ige; son of the late sage, Chief Bola Ige; former member of International Court of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola, and a host of others.

Traditional rulers at the occasion were Orangun of Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolade; Oba Ajibola Titus from Ilorin and many others. Students from various schools also attended the programme.