Ajiboyede
Ajiboyede was a successful but autocratic alaafin of the Oyo empire during the sixteenth century.[1] He succeeded Orompoto.
Events of reign
Ajiboyede is credited with starting the three-year festival known as Bebe, to celebrate peace after the victory over the Nupes and to celebrate Ajiboyede's long reign.[1] During the peaceful period, commerce and agriculture thrived, and the new capital of Igboho began to grow as a result of a favorable geographical location and population concentration. In the process, two major markets were established during his reign, and the city became a major trade route for acquiring horses from Hausaland.
Shortly after the Bebe festival began, Ajiboyede's firstborn son, the Arema Osemolu, died.[2] Whilst Ajiboyede was mourning and fasting he reportedly had some chiefs visiting him executed for supposedly having eaten food, which nearly caused a rebellion.[2]
Ajiboyede was succeeded by Abipa.
References
- Samuel Johnson, Obadiah Johnson. The History of the Yorubas, From the Earliest of Times to the Beginning of the British Protectorate, p 162 - 163.