Bashorun Of Oyo, Chief Yusuf Ayoola, To Take Over

The head of the Oyomesi, Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Ayoola, is expected to take over the affairs of the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, pending the appointment of a new Alaafin.

Historically, Bashorun has the final say on the nomination of a new Alaafin and his power rivalling the king himself.

According to history, the Oyo empire was a monarchical system, which was headed by Alaafin as the king. However, an administrative council and governing body made up of chiefs (Oyo Mesi) serve to maintain a balance in power.

Members of Oyomesi were headed by a prime minister called Bashorun, which could request the king’s suicide by sending him a calabash of parrot’s eggs.

Bashorun has the power to organise religious festivals in addition to becoming Commander in chief of the Oyo Army, which gave him tremendous independent religious authority.