Seriki Williams Abass: The Remarkable Journey of a Yoruba Slave Who Became a Leader
Seriki Williams Abass was originally born in Ijoga Orile, a town in present-day Ogun State, South West Nigeria, near Ilaro and Abeokuta. His birth name was Faremilekun, and his father’s name was Fagbemi. At the age of six, he was captured by Dahomeans and sold into slavery. Dahomey, now known as Benin Republic, changed its name in 1975.
Faremilekun’s journey as a slave began in Dahomey. His first owner there was an Islamic scholar and slave trader named Abass. Later, Abass sold him to a European slave trader named Williams. As was customary, Faremilekun took on the names of his owners, becoming William Abass. The first thing taken from a slave was their identity, and they bore their owner’s name.
Williams brought him to Brazil, where he noticed something exceptional about the boy. Rather than reselling him, Williams kept Faremilekun as a domestic slave, teaching him to read and write. Under Williams’ tutelage, Faremilekun, now known as Williams Abass, learned English, Dutch, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Seriki Williams Abass eventually returned to Nigeria and ruled Badagry for 24 years. He founded Aiyetoro and Idogo, leaving a lasting legacy. A statue of Seriki Williams Abass stands at Aiyetoro roundabout near Abeokuta, commemorating his remarkable life and contributions.
