"Forging Legacy: Delesolu's Epic Quest to Establish the Famed Oje Market in Ibadan" -

Join the awe-inspiring tale of Delesolu and Lajifin, two siblings whose valorous exploits reshaped the landscape of ancient town of Ibadan.

Born into a world rife with conflict and strife, they emerged as formidable warriors, driven by an unyielding spirit of adventure and determination.

Delesolu and Lajifin were siblings, with their father Ola Ojugbu. They were warriors who originated from Oje-ile but moved to Ijeru in Ogbomoso due to conflicts caused by supremacy among the inhabitants of Oje-ile.

Upon arriving in Ijeru, Delesolu and Lajifin did not settle; instead, they continued their military campaigns until they reached Ibadan during its Ojaba era. There, they encountered prominent figures like Iba Oluyole, Foko (the son of Ayejenku), Omiyale, and Oderinlo. Eventually, they established their residence beside Oderinlo’s house.

As warriors, they participated in battles and attended gatherings known as ‘Awujo,’ during which Delesolu expressed his desire to leave. Advised to remain close to his companions, they helped him relocate to a nearby area more favorable to him. Accompanied by 11 slaves and 11 horses, he journeyed to what is now known as present-day Oje, following Iba Oluyole’s directives.

Initially dense with forest, Oje required clearing before settlement. During this process, they discovered various artifacts used by warriors, including a wristband known as OJE. Despite his companions’ confusion regarding his interest in the OJE, Delesolu insisted it was the only item he wished to retain.

They constructed homes and erected a dwelling for his drummer, AGATE, whom he had brought from Ijeru. AGATE accompanied Delesolu everywhere, including the battlefield, providing rhythmic support. Remarkably, AGATE’s house still stands today, serving as a reminder of their shared history. Whenever AGATE drummed, Delesolu would be alerted to the presence of visitors seeking him.

Delesolu also observed traders traveling from Iseyin and Ilorin to Ojaba for commerce. Seeking to divert their trade to Oje, he sought counsel from traditional priests.

They advised him to prepare a vessel with sacrifices and carry it on his head from the entrance he took to Oje, then discard it wherever he wished. Following their guidance, he reached Saagun, where he deposited the vessel and planted an Ayunre tree.

Unfortunately, the tree was later destroyed by prayer warriors who believed evil spirits congregated there. This incident led to the dispersal of OJE market due to a bee attack that afflicted traders.

Following the establishment of Oje market, Delesolu instructed the creation of mounds of land where cowries were buried. Traders passing from neighboring towns were encouraged to patronize Oja Oje instead of Ojaba.

During this period, Aso Oke was not as prevalent, with ‘KIJIPA’ being the favored fabric. However, traders seeking cowries were directed to search within the mounds, ultimately redirecting commerce away from Ojaba towards Oje.

Thus, Oje Market commenced and persisted, attracting traders from Ilorin, Iseyin, and beyond.

Today, it remains a thriving marketplace, albeit now operating daily and specializing in Aso-ofi.

Today, the legacy of Delesolu and Lajifin lives on, immortalized in the vibrant tapestry of Ibadan’s rich history. Their epic journey stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity and the enduring power of legend, inspiring generations to come with tales of valor, sacrifice, and triumph.

For tourists from all corners of the globe finding themselves in Ibadan, a visit to Oje Market is a must-experience adventure!