The Oluwo of Ijemo and Aro of Egbaland, Chief Oluyinka Kufile, has called on all Egba townships to honor the sacrifices made by Ijemo heroes and heroines during the infamous Ijemo Massacre of August 8, 1914.
Speaking about the historical significance of this event, Chief Kufile stressed that the civil unrest following the massacre played a pivotal role in the complete amalgamation of Nigeria.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, Chief Kufile outlined the importance of the 110th Commemoration of the Ijemo Massacre.
He described the weeklong celebration as a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Ijemoland and a remembrance of their fallen heroes.
He explained that the massacre, which saw the tragic killing of many Ijemo people and their leader, Oluwo Arimokunrin, marked a turning point in Nigerian history, leading to significant political changes.
Chief Kufile recounted how the general civil unrest and protests, which erupted after the alleged unjust treatment of Chief Ponlade, escalated into a conflict that engulfed the rapidly developing Abeokuta Township.
He said the aftermath of this unrest ultimately provided the British with the justification needed to advance the amalgamation of Nigeria.
“The civil unrest broke out, the then rapidly developing Abeokuta Township became embroiled in civil strife with the civil unrest and the masses in open protest and the Ogboni groups were not left out with other townships in alignment with the Ijemo people and their leadership. The Egba United Government had its greatest challenge at hands.”
“The Ijemos believed that Ponlade was not treated fairly, he was not given a fair hearing. The principle of natural justice, nemo judex in causa sua was utterly breached in the handling of the case of Chief Ponlade.
“The Egba United Government with limited experience at managing social unrest of such magnitude did all to avert the crisis but to no avail, the ill-fated result was the Ijemo Massacre which saw the grueling killing of many Ijemo people and their Leader, Oluwo Arinmokunrin and several households razed down in the inferno caused by arsonists who set dwelling houses on fire and people in their hundreds lost their homes.
“The Ijemo people retreated to their outpost or satellite villages to live there. Much was suspicion of the Ijemos for the Egba Leadership for many years. Now it is gratifying that Ijemo has renewed its alliance and cooperation with the Egba Nation.
“With the benefit of hindsight, the loss of the Independence of the Egbas, with the British unilateral withdrawal of recognition for the Egba United Government was a political plan which had been formed only awaiting the right opportunity for its execution.
“The general civil unrest which culminated in the aftermath of the Ijemo Massacre provided the excuse that kick-started the complete Amalgamation of Nigeria.”
In light of the current economic challenges facing Nigeria, Chief Kufile warned against a planned 10-day nationwide protest by Nigerian youths.
He stressed that such actions could lead to the destruction of government properties and infrastructure, worsening the country’s economic situation.
Instead, he urged the youths to engage in dialogue with President Bola Tinubu’s government, emphasizing that peaceful conflict resolution is key to progress.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for Ijemo Day Celebration 2024, Chief Anthony Oyewole Oyero, announced a series of events to mark the commemoration.
Highlights include a medical outreach, traditional games, educational empowerment sessions, and cultural festivities.
The grand finale, set for August 10, 2024, will feature a performance by renowned Fuji musician Taye Currency and the presentation of awards to individuals who have contributed to the development of the Ijemo community.
Chief Kufile reiterated the importance of preserving Ijemo’s history, urging Egba townships to recognize the sacrifices made by Ijemo people in 1914.
He noted that the massacre and the subsequent civil unrest highlighted the need for unity and cooperation among the Egba communities.
“Today, Ijemo continues to rebuild its alliance with the Egba Nation, striving to maintain the legacy of their ancestors.”
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