Oba Fredrick Kumokun Adedeji Haastrup, known as Ajimoko I, was the 34th Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland. He hailed from the Bilaro royal families of Ilesha and ascended the throne well into his 70s, reigning from April 1896 to September 1901. His reign, though brief, was significant as he was the first Christian Oba in Yorubaland.
Early Life and Enslavement
Born around the 1820s-30s, Kumokun was captured by Ilorin slave raiders at the age of 14 while on an errand near Oke Ibode. He was transferred through various slave markets and eventually reached the coast, where he was placed on a slave ship. Fortunately, the ship was intercepted by British marines, who diverted it to Sierra Leone. There, Kumokun met CMS missionary Niels Christian Haastrup, who took him under his wing and baptized him as Fredrick Haastrup.
Education and Return to Nigeria
Kumokun, now Fredrick Haastrup, studied and became a licensed town planner. After nearly three decades, he returned to Nigeria, first arriving in Lagos and later reconnecting with his royal roots in Ijeshaland. In Lagos, he acquired substantial property, including an area known as “IgbĂł Obi” Haastrup, now called IgbobÄŻ, where he cultivated kola nuts on a commercial scale. His business ventures included trading in dry fish and other commodities along the waterways.
Involvement in the Kiriji Wars
Fredrick Haastrup played a crucial role during the Kiriji Wars as a member of the Ekiti Parapo solidarity group in Lagos. This organization supplied arms to Ijesa warriors fighting against Ibadan. He also advised the Owa during peace negotiations with the British and Ibadan, which helped end the hostilities. His efforts and connections led to his ascension to the throne, supported by two powerful groups: the war generals led by Ogedengbe and wealthy Ijesa traders in Lagos.
Contributions as Owa Obokun
As Owa Obokun, Haastrup was instrumental in various aspects of Ijeshaland’s development. Despite his short reign, he is credited with influencing the town’s unique grid-like layout, characterized by near-parallel, straight streets dividing the city into blocks. This planning has been a hallmark of Ilesa, although some earlier explorers also noted the city’s well-planned streets.
Legacy
Oba Fredrick Kumokun Adedeji Haastrup’s legacy includes his contributions to the Kiriji Wars, his role in advising the Owa, and his influence on the urban planning of Ilesa. His reign, though brief, left an indelible mark on the history and development of Ijeshaland.
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