Gaha

Article summary

Bashorun Gaha (or Ga'a) was a nobleman and Prime Minister/head of the Oyo Mesi (kingmakers) in the old Oyo Empire during the 18th century. From 1650 to 1750, Oyo Empire was at the pinnacle of its greatness, peace, prosperity and wealth. The Empire had expanded to the utmost part covering the river Niger in the north; part of Tapa and Bariba kingdoms in the East of the lower Niger; towards the South by the seacoast and the West including Popos and Dahomey. Thousands of provincial officials (called Ajele) were appointed to administer all the conquered kingdoms and report to the Alaafin who gloried in his majesty and power. Women, men, young and old sang his praises. Then internal struggles for power began the rapid acceleration of the Empire disintegration and total collapse. In 1754, Gaha was named the Basorun of Oyo. He was a descendant of the famous Basorun Yau Yamba. He was well-loved by his people because of his many war victories and the protections he provided to the people against cruel and despotic rulership of the Kings. He was believed to possess potent medicinal powers and charms. But Gaha coveted all the powers and responsibilities of Oyo state to himself; all the tributes were paid to him, and he appointed his kindreds as Ajeles to administer the provinces.…

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