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Balogun Onafowokan Otubu

Historical depiction of Balogun Otubu in warrior regalia

Warrior Legacy

Balogun Onafowokan Otubu, often called "Otubu of Ita Afin", was the first Balogun of Ijebu-Ode preceding the renowned Balogun Kuku. As military commander, he led Ijebu forces in two pivotal conflicts: the Ijebu-Ijaye War (resisting British influence) and the Kiriji War (1877-1893) against Ibadan and Ekiti-Parapo forces . His epithet "war returnee" reflects his survival through these brutal campaigns where Ijebu warriors famously camped at Oru against Ibadan forces .

Kiriji War Command

During the 16-year Kiriji War, Otubu strategically positioned Ijebu forces against Ibadan's expansionist policies. The war erupted when Ibadan's oppressive "Ajele" system provoked eastern Yoruba kingdoms . As documented in peace treaties, Otubu represented Ijebu interests alongside Awujale Ademuyewo Afidipotemole, resisting Ibadan's attempts to dominate trade routes to the coast.

Imagbon War Against Britain

Otubu's warriors fiercely resisted British forces in the 1892 Imagbon War, defending Ijebu sovereignty before eventual annexation. This conflict marked the last major stand against colonial encroachment, with Otubu's tactics delaying British advancement for months . His leadership during this transitional period earned him recognition as both a military strategist and cultural preservationist.

Cultural Stewardship

Otubu's era saw the transition from traditional Odeda festival to Islamic-influenced Ita Oba (later Ojude Oba) under Balogun Kuku. As a pre-colonial Balogun, he maintained the warrior traditions of the Olukongbon and Ade Kola military offices while adapting to changing political landscapes. His residence at Ita-Ntebo became a cultural landmark, preceding Kuku's famed Olorunsogo House .

Historical Timeline

  • Pre-1890Served as first Balogun of Ijebu-Ode
  • 1877-1893Commanded Ijebu forces in Kiriji War
  • 1892Led resistance in Imagbon War against British
  • LegacyPaved way for Balogun Kuku's reforms

Military Achievements

  • Defended Ijebu trade routes during Kiriji War
  • Resisted Ibadan's Ajele system oppression
  • Preserved warrior traditions amid colonial changes