15 Interesting facts about Ijesa people

The Ijesha are a sub-ethnicity of the Yorubas of West Africa. Ilesha is the largest town and historic cultural capital of the Ijesha people and is home to a kingdom of the same name, ruled by an Oba locally styled as the Owa Obokun Adimula.

1. Migration from Ile-Ife: The Ijesa people trace their ancestry back to Ile-Ife, the legendary cradle of the Yoruba civilisation. According to tradition, their founding father was a son of Oduduwa, the mythical progenitor of the Yoruba race.

2. Resilience and Determination: Renowned for their tenacity, the Ijesa people are characterised by the saying “Osomaalo,” which translates to “I will not leave until I have collected my money.” This reflects their steadfastness in pursuing their goals, particularly in financial matters.

3. Bravery in Warfare: Throughout history, the Ijesa people have demonstrated valour in times of conflict. Notably, Ogedengbe Agbogungboro, a prominent Ijesa warrior, served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Ekiti Parapo Army during the Kiriji War in the nineteenth century.

4. Tourist Attractions: Erin-Ijesa Waterfalls, also known as Olumirin Waterfalls, is a captivating natural wonder situated in Erin-Ijesa. With seven tiers cascading amidst lush greenery, it offers a mesmerising spectacle for visitors.

5. Cultural Heritage: The Ijesa people boast a rich cultural heritage, evident in various archaeological sites and traditional festivals. These include the Kiriji War Museum at Imesi-Ile, Agirigiri Shrine at Ijebu-Ijesa, and the historic Owa-Obokun Millennia Palace in Ilesa.

6. Tribal Marks: While the Ijesa people do not have a distinct tribal mark style, traditional markings typically comprise about 5 or 6 horizontal lines on each cheek. These marks were historically used for identification purposes among the Yoruba.

7. Cuisine: A traditional culinary delight among the Ijesa people is pounded yam (“iyan”) served with egusi soup, complemented by palm wine. This reflects the local gastronomic preferences and cultural practices of the community.

8. Iwude Ogun Festival: Among the plethora of traditional festivals celebrated in Ijesaland, the Iwude Ogun Festival holds particular significance. During this event, the reigning Owa (King) pays homage to traditional chiefs across Ilesa, underscoring the importance of communal leadership.

9. Geographical Location: Predominantly hailing from Ilesa in Osun State, Nigeria, the Ijesa people are geographically bordered by Ekiti to the east, Oyo to the west, Igbomina to the north, and Ife to the south.

10. Historical Legends: The history of the Ijesa people is steeped in myth and legend, encapsulating tales of migration, heroism, and cultural evolution. These narratives serve as a foundation for understanding the collective identity and heritage of the community.

11. Origin of the Name “Omo Obokun”: The term “Omo Obokun” is used by the Ijesa people to describe themselves and translates to “Children of Obokun.” This designation is rooted in the ancestral lineage of the community, particularly tracing back to Obokun, a significant figure in their history.

12. Trade and Commerce: Historically, the Ijesa people have been active participants in trade and commerce, leveraging their strategic location and entrepreneurial spirit. This has facilitated economic growth and cultural exchange within the region.

13. Religious Practices: Traditional religious beliefs and practices play a significant role in the lives of the Ijesa people, influencing various aspects of their culture, ceremonies, and worldview. These beliefs are often intertwined with reverence for ancestral spirits and deities.

14. Education and Scholarship: The Ijesa people place a high value on education and intellectual pursuits, recognising the importance of knowledge in personal and societal development. This emphasis on learning has produced scholars and professionals who contribute to various fields.

15. Community Spirit: Central to the fabric of Ijesa society is a strong sense of community spirit and solidarity. This manifests in communal activities, mutual support networks, and collective decision-making processes, fostering unity and cohesion among the people.