Aare Ona Kakanfo & His 70 Eso: The Brave Yoruba Warriors

In the 17th century, the Yoruba kingdom was forever changed by the visionary King Ajagbo, one of the most revered Alaafin of Oyo.

Alaafin Ajagbo introduced the prestigious title of Kakanfo, accompanied by 70 elite warriors known as the Eso. This powerful duo would become the backbone of the Old Oyo Empire’s military, second in importance only to the esteemed Oyomesi.

The Kakanfo and his Eso were more than just warriors – they were guardians of the realm, tasked with protecting the kingdom from harm.

As such, they were considered noblemen of the second class, with the Kakanfo earning the honorific title of “Iba”, shared only with the respected Basorun; head of Oyomesi.

Kakanfo and the Eso title was not one of birthright or privilege; it was a badge of honour earned through military prowess and merit alone.

Only the most skilled and battle-hardened soldiers were selected for this esteemed rank, making the Kakanfo and his Eso the epitome of bravery and strength.

Each Eso wore a distinctive coronet (Akoro) and carried a symbolic staff of war, known as The Invincible, a potent reminder of their authority and fearlessness.

With no weapons in hand, they relied on their cunning, strategic thinking, and unwavering courage to protect the Yoruba Empire of Oyo-Ile from harm.

As the Kakanfo and his Eso patrolled the land, their legend grew, striking fear into the hearts of potential enemies and inspiring awe in the people they protected.

Their legacy would endure for generations, a testament to the power of courage, loyalty, and military excellence.

Sayings and Things Expected of Kakanfo and His Eso

There is a common saying which runs thus:

“Ohun meji I’o ye Eso

Eso ja o le ogun

Eso ja O ku si ogun.”

Which Translates:

One of two things befits an Eso

The Eso must fight and conquer

The Eso must fight and perish (in war).

He is never to turn his back, he must be victorious or die in war.

There is another saying :

” Eso kii gba Ofa leyin

Afi bi o ba gbogbe niwaju gangan.”

Which Translates:

An Eso must never be shot in the back

His wounds must always be right in front.

Also another saying :

” Alakoro ki isa ogun.”

Which translates:

One who wears a coronet must never flee in battle.

The Becoming and Office of Aare Ona Kakanfo

When a new Kakanfo takes office, he undergoes a transformative ritual that sets him apart from others.

His head is shaved completely, and 201 precise incisions are made on the back of his head.

Each cut is treated with unique mixtures from magical concoctions and specially prepared ingredients from 201 different portions, believed to instil fearlessness and courage.

This ancient tradition has a lasting impact, as the Kakanfo’s hair is allowed to grow long on the inoculated area, forming a distinctive tuft or pigtail.

However, this ritual also has a reputation for making Kakanfos stubborn and obstinate, potentially due to the potent ingredients used.

In battle, the Kakanfo wields no weapon, instead carrying the revered “King’s Invincible Staff,” a symbol of authority and strength.

Unyielding and unwavering, they are expected to give way to no one, not even their king.

This unyielding resolve is why Kakanfos are never appointed in the capital, but rather in other towns within the kingdom.

There can only be one Kakanfo at a time, and by virtue of their office, they are bound by a sacred duty.

Every three years, they must embark on a dangerous war-like journey to a destination chosen by the king, returning victorious or being brought back as a fallen hero within three months.

This unrelenting expectation has forged some of the most legendary warriors in Yoruba history.

The ensigns of the Aare Ona Kakanfo’s office are :

1. The Ojijiko: This is a cap made of the red feathers of the parrot’s tail, with a projection behind reaching as far down as the waist.
2. An apron of leopard’s skin, and a leopard’s skin to sit on always.
3. The Asiso or pigtail.
4. The Staff Invincible.

The 70 Esos

The Kakanfo stands out as the supreme leader among the Esos, a title that commands great respect.

The Esos are divided into two categories: 16 high-ranking and 54 lower-ranking members, totalling 70 individuals. All Esos are required to reside in the capital city.

The high-ranking Esos hold the following esteemed titles:

1. Gbonka
2. Eso Oranyan
3. Sagbedo
4. Obago
5. Esiele
6. Kogbona
7. Ole
8. Orunto
9. Owota
10. Sakin
11. Odigbon
12. Sagbua
13. Sadoe
14. Eruku
15. Gboingboin
16. Adaha

These titles are highly respected and carry significant importance.

Military personnel and others brave at heart hold this title in high esteem, and it inspires a strong sense of pride.

In fact, the descendants of an Eso feel honoured to uphold the legacy of their ancestors, known for their noble actions and bravery.

The phrase “Emi omo Eso” (meaning “me born of an Eso”) is still used today to express disdain for anything cowardly or lowly and to show courage in the face of danger or death.

Many Egba chiefs trace their roots back to the Esos of Oyo, including Okukemu, the first king of Abeokuta, who was a Sagbua.

The Kakanfo, also known as Are-Ona-Kakanfo, is a prestigious title similar to a field marshal, awarded to the most skilled and strategic soldier of the time.

The Kakanfo holds a unique position, standing at the head of the Esos. This title is a symbol of excellence and bravery, and it continues to inspire future generations.

List of Past Aare Ona Kakanfo

The following are the Kakanfos who have ever borne office in the Yoruba country:

1. Kokoro gangan of Iwoye
2. Oyatope of iwoye
3. Oyabi of Ajase
4. Adeta of Jabata
5. Oku of Jabata
6. Afonja of Ilorin
7. Toyeje of Ogbomoso
8. Edun of Gbogun
9. Amepo of Abemo
10. Kurunmi of Ijaye
11. Ojo Aburumaku of Ogbomoso
12. Latosisa of Ibadan
13. Ladoke Akintola of Ogbomoso
14. MKO Abiola of Abeokuta
15. Gani Adams of Arigidi-Akoko

Nearly the whole of them were connected with stirring times and upheavals in the country. Listed below are some popular Aare Ona Kakanfo in History.

Oyabi of Ajase

While the Kakanfos were known for their stubbornness and sometimes tumultuous reigns, a few exceptions stood out for their remarkable leadership.

Oyabi or Oyalabi, based in the strategic garrison town of Jabata, was one such exemplary figure. During his tenure, he skillfully navigated the treacherous landscape of palace politics, keeping the kingdom safe from internal strife.

Oyabi’s wisdom and military prowess were put to the test when the cunning Osorun Gaa, prime minister at the time, began orchestrating the rapid succession of Alaafins.

Undeterred, Oyabi formed a crucial alliance with the military and together, they brought an end to Basorun Gaa’s reign of terror.

In a bold move reminiscent of Julius Caesar crossing the Rubicon River, Oyabi led the Eso into the city, and Gaa was finally brought to justice.

Hailing from Ajase, Oyabi was a steadfast and loyal servant of the Alaafin and the Oyo empire.

His remarkable longevity and unwavering dedication earned him a revered place in the annals of Yoruba history, serving as a shining example of effective leadership and wise governance.

Afonja of Ilorin

Afonja – a name synonymous with bravery, strategic brilliance, and a hint of controversy. As the Kakanfo, Afonja wielded immense power and influence, shaping the fate of the Oyo Empire.

Afonja’s rise to prominence was marked by his unwavering loyalty to the Alaafin and his unrelenting passion for military conquest.

He was the mastermind behind several successful campaigns, expanding the empire’s borders and securing crucial victories. His tactical genius and fearlessness in battle earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.

However, Afonja’s tenure was not without its challenges. His unyielding stubbornness and occasional disregard for authority led to friction with the Alaafin and other high-ranking officials.

Despite this, his military prowess and strategic acumen made him an indispensable asset to the empire.

Afonja’s legacy is complex, with some hailing him as a hero and others criticizing his actions as reckless and divisive.

Nevertheless, his impact on the Oyo Empire and the office of the Kakanfo is undeniable.

He remains one of the most fascinating and enigmatic figures in Yoruba history, a testament to the intricate and often tumultuous nature of power and leadership.

Toyeje of Ogbomoso

Toyeje Akanni’s ascension to the Kakanfo office was marked by his remarkable military campaigns, which expanded the Oyo Empire’s borders and solidified its dominance.

To be able to understand and appreciate the work and activities of Toyeje Akanni, we must examine the situation of things in Yorubaland.

The first point to note was that the peace and order that reigned during the kingship of Alaafin Abiodun was no more. The very fact was that the Nupe, the Ibariba, the Egbas, and the Dahomeans had ceased to pay allegiance to Alaafin of Oyo.

Kakanfo Afonja was already power-drunk, allied with Alimi the Fulani Mallam for spiritual assistance and military help as will be seen becoming his undoing.

Aare Afonja’s efforts to restructure the army with the aim of preventing further damage by the slave soldiers for their rapacity mobilized the slave soldiers to organize a mutiny, eventually resulted in Aare Afonja’s death making Toyeje Akanni his commander of right wing the Kakanfo.

The wars led as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland are:

• The Battle of Ogele (1824)
• Mugba Mugba War (1825)
• The Battle of Pamo
• The Battle of Ede

He was of indomitable courage and spirit, which ensured that the Fulani menace which engendered the fall of the once mighty Oyo Empire was unsuccessful against his kingdom, Ogbomoso.

His unwavering dedication to the Alaafin and the Oyo Empire made him a trusted and respected figure, earning him a place among the greatest Kakanfos in history.

Kurunmi of Ijaye

Kakanfo Kurumi of Ijaye was a very spectacular Aare Ona Kakanfo. He insisted that the àrẹ̀mọ (first prince) of Ọ̀yọ́ must die with the Aláàfin according to tradition.

It was said that he had been part of an earlier conference in which that convention was abolished.

To enforce his desire, he made war on the rest of the Oyo kingdom from his garrison city in Ijaye.

His reputation as a warrior was legendary.

He is portrayed in art as a no-nonsense, nimble wit with a commanding presence.

His commanding presence and personality gave birth to the popular saying: “Ààrẹ Kúrunmí ńpè ọ́, o lóndífá lọ́wọ́. Bífá bá fọre tí Ààrẹ ò bá fọre ńkọ́?”

This means: “Aare Kurumi is calling you, yet you dare say you are busy making Ifa divinations.

What If the Ifa divinations favour you with a good response and the Aare Kurumi gives you a bad response”

There was no excuse for refusing a call from the generalissimo.

In a surgical commando strike, Ibadan special forces attacked at night his troops in Iseyin and wiped out the entire rear brigade.

All of Kurumi’s five sons who were company commanders died in the attack.

Like his name, Aare kurunmi was ruined by death, indeed.

I-K-U-R-U-M-I

Ojo Aburumaku of Ogbomoso

Ojo Olaniipa, son of Toyeje Akanni, followed in his father’s footsteps as the Aare Ona Kakanfo, a prestigious title reserved for the greatest warriors.

However, his tenure was marked by an unprecedented era of peace in Yorubaland, with no wars to fight.

Nicknamed “Aburumaku” (meaning “wicked and never dying”) due to his rebellious nature from a young age, Ojo Olaniipa was known for his unyielding spirit.

Despite the peaceful times, he craved action and sought to keep his battle skills sharp. To satiate this desire, he instigated a civil war in Ogbomoso, which he then quashed with his characteristic vigor.

Upon Ojo Aburumaku‘s passing, his son Otunla seized the throne without consensus, sparking a brief but intense power struggle.

After just six months, Otunla was removed from power, and the leadership of the Aare Ona Kakanfo was passed to Latosisa of Ibadan, who had to fight to claim the title from the Alaafin.

Latosisa’s ascension marked a new chapter in the history of the Aare Ona Kakanfo, as he brought a fresh perspective and unwavering determination to the role.

His legacy would be shaped by the challenges he faced and the battles he fought, cementing his place in the annals of Yoruba history.

Obadoke Latosisa of Ibadan

In the thriving city of Ibadan, Kakanfo Obadoke Latoosa had made a name for himself as a powerful warrior.

He had put an end to the cruel reign of the notorious slave trader, Efunsetan Aniwura, bringing relief to the people.

In a surprising move, Latoosa took his own life after being confronted by his own generals. He had been criticized for his leniency towards a slave who had disrespected him and his deputies.

When the slave insulted his deputy, Balogun Ibikunle, Latoosa’s response was surprisingly calm. He asked the slave to explain himself, as if they were equals. Ibikunle was outraged and beheaded the slave on the spot.

Latoosa then turned to Ibikunle and asked if he was ready to take over as leader. Ibikunle agreed, and the other generals present didn’t object.

Latoosa had misjudged his own popularity and was taken aback by the turn of events. In a final act of defiance, he took poison and lay down, covering himself as if he was going to sleep.

Latoosa’s story is a reminder that even the most powerful people can fall victim to their own mistakes. His legacy is complex, marked by both triumph and tragedy, a reminder that life can be unpredictable.

Samuel Ladoke Akintola of Ogbomoso

Samuel Ladoke Akintola (1910-1966) was a Nigerian politician and lawyer who served as the last Premier of the Western Region. He was a prominent figure in pre-independence and post-independence politics.

Akintola implemented development projects, established the University of Ife, and was a skilled orator and charismatic leader. He advocated for federalism and regional autonomy.

In 1965, he was appointed Aare Ona Kakanfo (Field Marshal) of Yoruba land, a prestigious title reserved for respected warriors and leaders. Tragically, he was assassinated in a military coup on January 15, 1966.

Akintola’s legacy inspires Nigerians, and his contributions to development and democracy are still celebrated. His commitment to federalism and regional autonomy remains an important part of Nigeria’s political heritage.

MKO Abiola of Abeokuta

Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola (1937-1998) was a Nigerian businessman, publisher, politician, and aristocrat from the Yoruba Egba clan. He held the prestigious title of Aare Ona Kankafo of Yoruba land.

Abiola ran for president in 1993, but the election results were annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida due to allegations of corruption and unfairness.

Despite being a friend and supporter of Babangida, Abiola was later arrested and detained by General Sani Abacha.

In recognition of his contributions to democracy, Abiola was posthumously awarded the GCFR (Grand Commander of the Federal Republic) on June 6, 2018, by President Muhammadu Buhari. Additionally, Nigeria’s Democracy Day was changed to June 12 in his honour.

Abiola’s presidential campaign had gained widespread support across different regions and religious groups, a rare feat for a politician at the time.

Tragically, he died in military custody after declaring himself president due to his landslide victory in the June 12, 1993 election.

He became an unlikely symbol of democracy, and his legacy continues to inspire Nigerians to this day.

Conclusion

The Kakanfo and his Eso warriors were the epitome of bravery and strength in the Yoruba kingdom, serving as the backbone of the Old Oyo Empire’s military.

With a rich history and legacy, the title of Kakanfo has been held by only the most skilled and battle-hardened soldiers, earning the respect and admiration of their people.

From Iba Kokoro-Gangan to Iba Gani Adams, the list of past Aare Ona Kakanfo is a testament to the enduring power of courage, loyalty, and military excellence.

Their stories are a reminder of the importance of honour, duty, and sacrifice, and continue to inspire future generations to strive for greatness.

The Kakanfo’s unwavering resolve and unrelenting expectation to return victorious or be brought back as a fallen hero has forged some of the most legendary warriors in Yoruba history.

The office of Kakanfo and his 70 brave Eso is that of the enduring spirit of the Yoruba people and the significance of preserving our cultural heritage.

 The legacy of the Esos continues to inspire and motivate, serving as a beacon of hope and strength for generations to come.