By Osi-Apagun Lai Labode, Ph.D.
Osi Apagun Pote of Egbaland and Founder/Chairman, Lai Labode Heritage Foundation

As the Yoruba people stand on the cusp of a new era with the coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo on April 5th, 2025, a remarkable confluence of history beckons us. On this very day, the Egba people will culminate the grand Lisabi Agbongboakala festivities, an event that venerates the indomitable spirit of Lisabi, the gallant hero who led the Egba to triumph over the Oyos, granting us our hard-won independence.

This synchronization of celebration transcends mere coincidence; it resonates with a profound spiritual significance, echoing through the annals of our intertwined histories. It feels as if Lisabi and the ancestral kings of Oyo are bridging the realms of the living and the departed, sending us a clarion call for unity and collaboration.

This extraordinary realization was first unearthed by Akogun Adebayo Shoyoye, the venerable Akogun of Egbaland. His insight ignited a cascade of thoughts within me, leading to deeper contemplation of the significance behind this alignment of events.

That very night, I was graced with a vivid dream. In this sacred vision, I witnessed the new Alaafin of Oyo and the Alake of Egbaland standing side by side, embraced by their people. They were more than leaders; they were potent symbols of unity and resilience. I beheld the Egbas and Oyos forging deeper alliances, pooling their wisdom, talents, and resources to cultivate a future radiant with mutual prosperity and cultural pride.

The Yoruba adage, “Agbajowo la fi n so’ya” (“Collaboration is the key to success”), resonates with urgency and importance in this pivotal moment. As we rejoice in the coronation of the new Alaafin and commemorate the valour of Lisabi, let us embrace our shared lineage and collective destiny that bind us ever closer.

From my reflections, I have come to believe that “a truly great king wears his crown in the hearts of the people.” This statement embodies the essence of leadership and reminds us that true authority comes not just from titles but from the love and dedication of those we serve. A leader’s reign is fortified by the unity and support of their people, and in this spirit, we must strive to cultivate collective strength in Yorubaland.

The tales of Lisabi’s heroism alongside the storied legacy of the Oyo Empire serve as enduring testaments to our people’s resilience, ingenuity, and collective strength. The Egba and Oyo nations are woven from the same cultural threads, crafted from the sacrifices, victories, and legacies bequeathed to us by our forebears.

As we chart our course forward, let us draw inspiration from our illustrious past, forging a dynamic new chapter built on cooperation and mutual respect. To this end, the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation proposes several initiatives, including the establishment of breathtaking monuments dedicated to the new Alaafin and the esteemed Alake, showcasing modern art in Yorubaland that employs the best techniques. These monumental tributes will stand as eternal symbols of unity and greatness in the hearts of our people.

Additionally, we propose the appointment of vibrant individuals as the ‘Asoju Pataki Alaafin Oyo’ and ‘Asoju Pataki Alake Egba,’ titles that are intended to reinforce the connection between our peoples and the new paradigm we seek. Funded by the devoted sons and daughters of both nations, as well as our allies and friends, these initiatives will serve as beacons of hope and solidarity, illuminating our path toward cultural preservation and understanding.

As we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new Alaafin on this monumental occasion, let us carry these powerful adages with us as guiding principles, inspiring us to foster unity and cooperation between the Egba and Oyo nations.

Long live the Alaafin of Oyo ! Long live the Alake of Egbaland! May our unity be the cornerstone of a flourishing future for our people and generations yet unborn!

Osi-Apagun Lai Labode, Ph.D
Founder, Lai Labode Heritage Foundation

Osi Apagun Pote of Egbaland
Okanlomo Of Ijaye, Egba
Apagun Pote of Ibadan Gbagura
Balogun Aribidesi of Orile Igbon