OROMPOTO, THE FIRST FEMALE ALAAFIN OF OYO

OROMPOTO, THE FIRST FEMALE ALAAFIN OF OYO

Orompoto was responsible for leading the Oyo Empire between the years 1554 to 1562. She was the daughter of Alaafin Ofinran and the grand-daughter of Alaafin Onigbogi, both rulers of the Empire in their own time.

Orompoto became Alaafin of Oyo and was reportedly masterfully skilled on horseback, and created a specialised order of cavalry officers within her army that were subject to the Eso Ikoyi. She was also considered a skilful warrior and distinguished herself at the battle of Illayi. She is said to have died in battle, one of the few Alaafins to have died in combat.

For a woman to rise to become Alafin is also a testament that female children have always been valued in Yoruba land for a long time.

Historical Africa Yoruba can not fact check if the above photo is that of King Orompoto. But the picture depicts an ancient Alafin of Oyo.