A prominent Egba chief, Mustapha Abdulhakeem Akinfiwatolu, has recounted the historic struggle and resilience that led to the emergence of Abeokuta, describing it as a product of courage, unity and long-term sacrifice rooted in the 18th century revolt led by Lisabi Agbongbo Akala.
Akinfiwatolu, who is the Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland, said the story of the Egba people remains a defining narrative of resistance against oppression, noting that Lisabi’s uprising against the old Oyo Empire in the 1760s marked a turning point in the quest for self-determination.
According to him, the Egba people, who were under the political control and tribute system of the Oyo Empire in the early centuries, endured years of subjugation before a coordinated resistance emerged.
He explained that Lisabi deployed the traditional Aaro communal labour system as a strategy to mobilise the people, build trust and organise what later became a decisive revolt against Oyo authority.
“Lisabi was not just a warrior but a strategist who understood the power of unity. Through Aaro, he created a network that made resistance possible,” he said.
The chief noted that although the revolt weakened Oyo’s hold on Egba territories, it did not immediately bring stability, as the aftermath triggered prolonged conflicts across Yorubaland.
He said the Egba people were forced into years of migration and displacement, moving across different territories in search of safety, a period he described as critical to shaping their collective identity.
Despite the hardship, Akinfiwatolu said the spirit of independence ignited by Lisabi endured, holding the people together through decades of uncertainty.
He added that spiritual guidance through Ifa divination also played a role in their journey, as it pointed the people toward a destined settlement where they would eventually thrive.
The Egba people, he said, finally found refuge in Abeokuta in the early 19th century, a location chosen for its natural defensive advantage, particularly the Olumo Rock.
“Abeokuta was more than a place of refuge; it was a turning point. It brought together scattered groups, restored governance structures and strengthened a shared identity,” he said.
He explained that the settlement marked the transformation of the Egba into a more organised and resilient society capable of defending itself and pursuing development.
Akinfiwatolu noted that the legacy of Lisabi continues to be celebrated through cultural events such as the annual Lisabi Festival, which he said serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that shaped Egbaland.
He, however, urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the Egba historical experience, stressing the importance of unity, collective responsibility and long-term vision in nation-building.
“Lisabi may not have witnessed the full outcome of his actions, but his courage set in motion a process that defined a people. His legacy is not just in what he achieved, but in what he began,” he said.
The chief called on citizens to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism exemplified by Lisabi in efforts to build a just and equitable society.
The Lisabi Festival, now in its 39th edition, remains one of the prominent cultural events in Ogun State, celebrating the heritage, resilience and unity of the Egba people.
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