The undying story of Afonja dynasty

Afonja is a key figure in the history of the fall of Ilorin. He was a Yoruba military leader and the Aare Ona Kakanfo (the generalissimo) of the Oyo Empire, which was a prominent Yoruba kingdom in the 18th century. His actions played a significant role in the events that led to the fall of Ilorin to the Fulani forces.

During Afonja's time, the Oyo Empire was experiencing internal conflicts and political instability. Afonja, as the Aare Ona Kakanfo, held considerable military power and authority in the empire. However, he became dissatisfied with the Oyo Alaafin (king) and sought greater autonomy for himself.

Afonja formed an alliance with the Fulani Muslim clerics and leaders, including Shehu Alimi. He welcomed the Fulani into Ilorin and allowed them to establish a presence in the city.
The Fulani, in turn, supported Afonja in his bid for independence from the Oyo Empire. However, the alliance between Afonja and the Fulani eventually soured. Afonja's relationship with Shehu Alimi deteriorated, and the Fulani saw an opportunity to seize power for themselves. They turned against Afonja and launched a successful rebellion, ultimately overthrowing him. The fall of Afonja weakened the Yoruba resistance in Ilorin and paved the way for the Fulani forces led by Alimi to capture the city. The Fulani takeover of Ilorin marked the beginning. of their dominance in the region and the establishment of the Sokoto Caliphate's influence. It is worth noting that the role and motivations of Afonja in the fall of Ilorin remain a subject of historical debate. Some view him as a traitor who betrayed his own people, while others consider him a victim of the larger political dynamics and power struggles of the time. Regardless, Afonja's actions and the subsequent events had a profound impact on the history and trajectory of Ilorin and the surrounding region.