The Calabash model of the world by the ancient Yoruba
The Yoruba word for calabash is Igba. The calabash plant (Lagenaria sireraria) is a member of the cucumber family. The fruits are…
History and culture
Coherent economy: the economic theory of the ancient Yoruba
Coherent economy refers to the economy in which the primary sector (acquisition of raw materials) was proximate and seamlessly integrated with the…
The so-called Ibadan treaty of 1893
Apparently there was a ‘treaty’ in 1893 concluded between Mr Denton, Acting Governor of the Lagos Colony, and the Baale of Ibadan.…
Oduduwa: sage, not city founder, not progenitor, not warrior
The meaning of the name Oduduwa is thought to hold the key to explaining myths surrounding the man. Samuel Johnson thought it…
In search of the Yoruba religion
Iṣẹṣe is a word commonly associated with the Yoruba religion. It has been translated to mean ‘the original tradition’. August 20 is…
Meaning of the word ‘Yoruba’
Some day we Yoruba will realise the genius of our forefathers. The Yoruba did not write but they developed a language that…
The Alaafin-OOni imbroglio: A Feud without substance.
The infinite ability of the Yoruba to adapt is both a blessing and a curse. Yoruba is the most successful of all…
Who has the authority to change Yoruba tradition, Oba or the people?
The Yoruba word for tradition is ‘afowodowo’. By tradition the Yoruba meant a long-established custom or way of living passed down from…