Gaha
Oyo noble and military leader / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Bashorun Gaha (or Gaa) was a notable nobleman and leader of the military in the old Oyo Empire during the 18th century.[1] From 1650 to 1750, Oyo Empire was at the pinnacle of her greatness, peace, prosperity and wealth.[2][3] The Empire had expanded to the utmost part covering the river Niger in the north; part of Tapa and Bariba kingdoms in the East of the lower Niger; towards the South by the seacoast and the West including Popos and Dahomey.[4] Thousands of provincial officials (called Ajeles) were appointed to administer all the conquered kingdoms and report to the Alafin who glory in his majesty and power.[3] Women, men, young and old sang his praises.[3] Then internal struggles for power began the rapid acceleration of the Empire disintegration and total collapse.[3]
In 1754, Gaha was named the Basorun of Oyo.[2] He was a descendant of the famous Basorun Yau Yamba.[3] He was well-loved by his people because of his many war victories and the protections he provided to the people against cruel and despotic rulership of the Kings.[4] He was known to possess potent medicinal powers and charms.[4] But Gaha coveted all the powers and responsibilities of Oyo state to himself; all the tributes were paid to him, and he appointed his kindreds as Ajeles to administer the provinces.[4] He held the post during the reigns of 5 consecutive imperial Alaafins, and was instrumental to the military conquests during their time.[5] Renowned for his juju prowess, he deposed or was responsible for the death of 4 of these Alaafins before being subdued by Alaafin Abiodun (who ruled c. 1774–1789) via trickery and betrayal by his generals.[1] The following were the Kings: