The Ilajes are a unique coastal group of Yoruba peoples spread along the shores of Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, and Delta states. They originally formed four geo-political entities: Ode Ugbo, Ode Mahin, Ode Etikan, and Aheri. While most towns in Mahin are on arable lands, those in Ugbo, Aheri, and Etikan are along the beaches and swampy terrains of the Atlantic Ocean coast.
Ilaje land shares borders with the Ikale to the north, the Ijebus to the west, the Itsekiri to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, with the Apoi and Arogbo Ijaw to the northeast.
Tracing their origins, the Ilajes left their ancestral home in Ile-Ife during the 10th century, settling along the coastline of Ondo State. Known for their adaptability and skills in water environments, they thrived in their new surroundings.
According to Oba Mafimisebi, the dethroned Olugbo, “we were the aboriginal Yoruba displaced from Ife,” a point on which he and the Oba of Benin agree. This displacement is why Ugbo and Benin share similar chieftaincy titles such as Lema, Ashogbon, Oliha, Ojomo, and Yasere. The Ilajes’ Yoruba language was originally spoken, even in the Benin palace.
Ben Omowafola Tomoloju, a cultural activist and the Aremo Onipopo of Ilaje Land, notes that the Ilajes were part of the ancient communities in Ile-Ife before Oduduwa’s arrival in the 10th century A.D. Their ancestors, opposing Oduduwa’s takeover, migrated and eventually settled near the Esinmirin River. This migration led to conflicts that inspired the legendary Ife Queen Moremi’s heroic espionage, which ultimately defeated the invading Ilajes.
The coastal town of Ugbo, under the paramount ruler Olugbo, is a significant settlement for these migrants, reflecting its name meaning “I have a place to stay.” Another major town, Mahin, is ruled by the Amapetu. These towns, along with others like Atijere, Obe-Nla, and Igbo-Egunrin, exhibit cult
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