Ogedengbe Agbogungboro (Orisarayibi Ogundamola) of Ijesa land (1822–1910)
Ogedengbe Agbogungboro of Ijesa land (1822–1910)
Born as Orisarayibi Ogundamola in 1822 to Apasan Borijiwa and Juola Orisatomi, Ogedengbe came into the world during the reign of Owa Aponlese I, ruler of Ilesa. He would rise to become one of the most formidable and iconic war generals in Yorùbá history.
Ogedengbe earned the fearsome title “Agbogungboro”—meaning He who fights wars with Oro bull roarer — due to his relentless campaigns and victories on the battlefield. He played a crucial role in the Ekiti Parapo War, helping to liberate numerous Ekiti communities such as Efon, Ita awure , and Oke Mesi from the grip of Ibadan dominance.
In 1867, he was a key figure in the ill-fated Ijesa-led attack on Igbajo, which provoked Ibadan counterattack on Ilesa. The resulting defeat forced the collapse of the Ijesa army and led Ogedengbe to seek refuge in Ìtà-Ògbólù.
Following the end of the Kiriji War and the turbulent era that rocked Yorùbáland, Ogedengbe returned to Ilesa. However, his band of seasoned war boys, restless in peace, began terrorizing local communities—raiding, harassing, and even kidnapping civilians.
This unrest caught the attention of the British colonial administration. In 1894, Captain R. L. Bower, acting with the approval of the colonial government and their cooperation, ordered Ogedengbe’s arrest. Despite his controversial actions, notable figures such as Frederick Haastrup passionately pleaded for his release. Eventually, after negotiations and the payment of a hefty £6,000 bail, Governor Carter approved his freedom.
In recognition of his military prowess and historical contributions, Ogedengbe was honored with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Obanlá of Ilesa in 1898—a fitting reward for his heroism during the Kiriji War.
From a fierce and feared warlord, Ogedengbe transformed into a revered elder statesman. He channeled his remaining years into leadership and service to the people of Ijesa land.
He passed away in 1910, leaving behind a legacy etched in valor forever remembered as Ogedengbe Agbogungboro, the indomitable warrior of Yoruba land.
Durable.org.ng Research Team