Bashorun Gaa: Oyo-Ile’s Unforgotten Tyrant And His End
The Old Oyo Empire was one of the strongest if not the strongest in the Yoruba mythology. Oyo-Ile as it was called then (not the modern day Oyo) has a lot of stories surrounding it, being the choosen place for many of the Yoruba gods and warriors, likewise kings and people of great reputation. This brings us to the story surrounding Bashorun Gaa and his reign as the Prime Minister of the Old Oyo Empire. Bashorun Gaa was an integral part of the Old Oyo Empire’s royal politics. No story of Oyo-Ile would be complete without a mention of his name. Bashorun Gaa was instrumental to the military conquests during his time as a Prime Minister of the Old Oyo Empire during the 17th/18th century. During the 17th century Oyo Kingdom, the monarchical failings came with a succession of uncharitable kings to the exalted throne. From Odarawu who was bad tempered, to Kanran, an unmitigated tyrant, then Jayin, the effeminate and dissolute, down to Ayibi, the cruel and ar