The Egba people recently celebrated the legacy of Sodeke, a renowned hero who led them from Igbo Egba in present-day Oyo State to Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, in 1830.
This iconic leader, who served as the Seriki of Egba, passed away on January 10, 1845.
To honor his memory, the Egba residents organized a media parley to inform the public if a grand celebration for this hero at Iporo Sodeke in Abeokuta, and this drew in notable figures, including Egba monarchs, traditional chiefs, and Prof. Rasheed Ajetunmobi.
During the parley to intimate journalists of the Sodeke Day Celebration, Prof. Ajetunmobi delivered a lecture titled “A Man Larger Than His Frame: Sodeke and Abeokuta in the Eye of History.”
He emphasized the significance of Sodeke’s bravery and leadership in shaping Egba national history and Yoruba history at large. The event also featured a tour to Sodeke’s tomb and ancestral lodge
“Chief sodeke is remembered in history as a man of outstanding valour who successfully led the Egba in several villages to a land of peace and prosperity in Abeokuta where his descendants prospered “
Sodeke’s remarkable story is a testament to his vision and courage. As a hunter and leader, he successfully guided the Egba people to a land of peace and prosperity in Abeokuta, where his descendants continue to thrive.
His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership, bravery, and community.
The grand finale of 180th Sodeke Day Celebration will happen at Sodeke Family house at Sodeke Abeokuta on the 10th of January, 2025
