WHO IS THIS Ọ̀RÀNMÍYÀN?
What Ilé-Ifẹ̀, Bini and Ọ̀yọ́ agreed on as true about the historical figure.
Ọ̀rànmíyàn, also spelled Ọ̀rányàn, is a prominent figure in Yoruba history and mythology. Bini or Idu people call him Ọmọnoyan due to dialectal infection. He is known as a legendary prince, warrior, and founder of the Oyo Empire in West Africa. According to Yoruba oral tradition, Ọ̀rànmíyàn was the son of Oduduwa, the progenitor of most Yoruba people, and he played a significant role in establishing several Yoruba kingdoms.
Ọ̀rànmíyàn is often depicted as a skilled warrior and leader who led military campaigns and founded or restored various Yoruba settlements. His exploits are celebrated in Yoruba folklore and are an essential part of Yoruba cultural heritage, symbolizing bravery, leadership, and the founding of dynasties in Yorubaland.
Below are what can be regarded as point of convergence in the history of Ọ̀rànmíyàn by Bini and Yorùbá historians:
Oranmiyan established obaship in Bini
Yes, according to Yoruba and Benin (Edo) oral traditions, Ọ̀rànmíyàn played a significant role in establishing the institution of the Oba (king) in the Benin Kingdom. Before the coming of Ọ̀rànmíyàn to Benin, the word ọba was alien to them. The word for king in Benin was Ogie and the title is Ogiso.
As the son of Oduduwa, the legendary progenitor of the Yoruba people, Ọ̀rànmíyàn is said to have journeyed from Ife (a Yoruba city) to Benin (then known as Ile-Ibinu, meaning “land of vexation”) and became instrumental in bringing stability and governance to the region.
The implication of this is that the word “Bini” for the kingdom does not have meaning unless what it means in Yorùbá as Ilẹ̀ Ìbínú. Bini historians and revisionists agree on these important issues.
Ọ̀rànmíyàn’s involvement in Benin’s history is often tied to his establishment of a ruling dynasty in the area. He is credited with laying the foundation for centralized authority and kingship, which evolved into the powerful monarchy known as the Oba of Benin. This historical connection between Ọ̀rànmíyàn and the establishment of kingship in Benin reflects the interconnectedness of West African histories and the influence of cultural exchanges and migrations in shaping regional institutions and traditions.
Oranmiyan founded old Oyo
Yes, according to Yoruba oral tradition, Ọ̀rànmíyàn is also credited with founding the Old Oyo Empire (also known as Oyo-Ile or Oyo Empire). After his exploits in Benin and other parts of Yorubaland, Ọ̀rànmíyàn is said to have settled in the area that would later become the heart of the Old Oyo Empire.
As a skilled and respected warrior and leader, Ọ̀rànmíyàn played a crucial role in organizing and consolidating the various Yoruba settlements and kingdoms in the region. He established a central authority and laid the foundations for what would become one of the most powerful empires in West Africa during its time.
The Old Oyo Empire flourished as a major political and military power in the Yoruba-speaking region, with its capital at Oyo-Ile. It controlled significant trade routes, engaged in diplomatic relations with neighboring states, and maintained a sophisticated administrative and military structure. The legacy of Ọ̀rànmíyàn’s founding role in Old Oyo Empire underscores his importance in Yoruba history and his contributions to the development of centralized governance and imperial power in the region.
Oranmiyan ruled briefly in Ile Ifẹ
According to Yoruba oral tradition and mythology, Ọ̀rànmíyàn is believed to have ruled briefly in Ile Ifẹ, which is considered the spiritual and historical homeland of the Yoruba people. He is often depicted as a significant figure in the early history of Ifẹ, before his subsequent journeys and accomplishments in other parts of Yorubaland.
As the son of Oduduwa, the mythical progenitor of the Yoruba people, Ọ̀rànmíyàn’s reign in Ile Ifẹ is usually portrayed as a period of leadership and influence within the context of Ifẹ’s early political and cultural developments. His presence and activities in Ifẹ are intertwined with the founding myths and legends of the Yoruba people, highlighting his role as a key figure in Yoruba history and mythology.
However, it’s important to note that much of the information about Ọ̀rànmíyàn’s rule in Ile Ifẹ and other aspects of his life are derived from oral traditions, myths, and legends passed down through generations. These narratives often blend historical events with mythical elements.
If you have been following this write up from the start, please draw your conclusions and comment them in the comment section.
Facts over fiction
Reason over passion
Objectivity over sentiment
