Oyo State is home to some of Nigeria’s most powerful traditional institutions—each with its own legacy of governance, resistance, diplomacy, and spirituality.
The paramount ruler of the Oyo Kingdom, holder of ancient traditions and political authority that spans centuries.
Leader of Nigeria’s largest indigenous city, guardian of warrior traditions and democratic chieftaincy system.
Ruler of the ancient Ogbomosho Kingdom, keeper of agricultural traditions and spiritual practices.
Traditional ruler of Saki, protector of Oke-Ogun cultural identity and border town heritage.
Monarch of Iseyin Kingdom, custodian of textile traditions and ancient trade routes.
Ruler of historic Ijaye, keeper of military traditions and resistance heritage.
Our ethnographic journey takes us across the royal domains of Oyo State, documenting the unique traditions, governance systems, and cultural practices that define each monarchy. From the imperial grandeur of the Alaafin’s court to the democratic traditions of Ibadanland, each royal house offers a distinct window into Yoruba civilization.
Follow our field research journey and discover the locations of each royal domain through our interactive touring map.
Read updates from our researchers as they document oral histories, royal ceremonies, and cultural practices in real-time.
Preserving the royal legacies of Oyo State’s traditional monarchies for the world.
