An Historical Sketch of Egba Traditional Authorities

Opening ParagraphThe Yoruba were probably first established in what is now Nigeria in the region of Nupe, whence they crossed the Niger and went southwards in search of a suitable settlement. They chose Ile-Ife where, according to tradition, they encountered no opposition from the aborigines. Ife was later idealized; it became their Holy City and the revered cradle of their civilization. They probably remained under a single government at Ife until they had consolidated their power sufficiently to undertake the conquest of their neighbours. The general drive was towards the south, although a counter-migration back to the north resulted in the foundation of Old Oyo. When the Yoruba fanned out from Ife, they left principalities in their wake as they drove towards the sea. This region was probably then occupied by the Fon or Egun people, who were either absorbed or expelled as the Yoruba, in various waves and in different directions, penetrated the tropical forest.