Lisabi Agbongbo Akala: The Heroic Guardian of Egba Legacy

The Egba people, often referred to as the children of Lisabi, are a prominent sub-tribe of the Yoruba who inhabit the southwestern part of Nigeria.

As the largest ethnic group within Ogun State—one of Nigeria’s 36 states—the Egbas are a significant force in the cultural and historical landscape of the region.

Nestled between their neighbours, the Lagosians of Lagos State, the Ibadans and Ibarapas of Oyo State, and the Beninoise from the Republic of Benin, the Egba people have carved out a unique identity.

They are predominantly farmers and traders, their livelihoods deeply rooted in the fertile lands they inhabit.

In matters of faith, the Egbas are diverse, with Islam and Christianity being the major religions, though a small number still adhere to the rich traditions of African traditional religion.

Culturally, the Egbas are vibrant, and their heritage is vividly expressed in their attire, cuisine, festivals, and ceremonies. At the heart of this cultural richness lies the legendary figure of Lisabi, the traditional hero of the Egba people.

Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State and the heartland of the Egbas holds the memory of this extraordinary man close.

Lisabi was not just any man; he was a giant, both in stature and in spirit. Although he lived in Igbehin, his roots are traced back to the Egba village of Itoku.

His unmatched prowess in warfare earned the people of Igbehin the exclusive right to the prestigious title of Balogun of Egbaland, a title that resonates with the echoes of their warrior past.

During Lisabi’s time, the Old Oyo Empire, ruled from Oyo-Ile by the Alaafin, extended its influence over much of Yoruba land, including Abeokuta.

The Alaafin’s representatives, known as Ilaris, were stationed in Egba villages and wielded their power with a heavy hand, oppressing the people and demanding their submission.

While most Egba leaders accepted this fate, Lisabi was different. He could not rest until his people were free from the yoke of servitude imposed by the Oyo overlords.

Lisabi’s mind was sharp, his resolve unbreakable. He devised a plan, beginning with the formation of a mutual aid society called Egbe Aro.

This group of farmers supported each other in cultivating their lands, but Lisabi had a grander vision. He intended to transform this cooperative society into a formidable military force—and he succeeded.

Lisabi is remembered as an energetic leader who worked harder than anyone else. His dedication was such that when it was time for others to help him on his farm, he astonished them by instead declaring war on Oyo.

The members of his cooperative society were initially stunned and fearful, but they could not bring themselves to break their promises. United in their loyalty, they followed Lisabi into battle.

In 1775, Lisabi struck a decisive blow against the Oyo Empire. He began by killing the Alaafin’s representative in his village of Igbehin. This act sparked a revolt that saw about six hundred imperial agents slain in a matter of moments.

Anticipating swift retribution, Lisabi acted swiftly. He relocated the women and children to a hidden ravine known as Ogbun Melegun, while he and his small army took cover in another part of the same ravine.

When the Oyo forces arrived, they were met with a fierce and unexpected assault. Lisabi’s tactical brilliance won the day, and the Egba people basked in the prosperity that followed their hard-fought victory.

Lisabi’s legacy is monumental. He is honoured as the father of all Egba people, a title that reflects the enduring impact of his leadership.

However, his life ended tragically when, in his old age, the nobles of the land, weary of his senile leadership, conspired to murder him.

Today, the memory of Lisabi is kept alive through the annual march to the Lisabi Sacred Forest in Oba Village, located in the Obafemi/Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.

This event is a significant part of the Egba tradition, where sons and daughters of the land come together to honour their legendary ancestors.

The forest said to be the final resting place of Lisabi, stands as a silent witness to the bravery and sacrifice of a man who dared to defy an empire and secure freedom for his people.