History of Bashorun Gaa in the Old Oyo Empire
Bashorun Gaa’s history is a complex one. Although he was known for his ferocity and some described him as wicked, he played a crucial role in maintaining the Oyo Empire’s unity. When Alaafin Labisi ascended to the throne in 1750, he appointed Gaa as his Bashorun, the head of the Oyomesi (seven hereditary kingmakers).
During Alaafin Labisi’s reign, the Old Oyo Empire, also known as Oyo-Ile, became incredibly powerful and earned the respect of other Yorubaland kingdoms. Historical records show that Alaafin Labisi received tributes from distant kingdoms like Dahomey, Popo, and Ashanti, despite his short reign. Over 6,000 kingdoms and villages in Yorubaland fell under Oyo-Ile’s political umbrella, making it a political and military giant in the region.
Alaafin Labisi Appointed Gaa as Bashorun
Gaa, the newly appointed Bashorun, was a fearless and powerful individual respected and feared by the people of Oyo-Ile for his potent charms and supernatural strength. He was said to have the ability to transform into any animal he desired. Gaa’s authority soon surpassed that of Alaafin Labisi, who had appointed him. However, his reliance on ‘juju’ powers often led to their misuse.
Gaa’s reign was marked by brutality, including the murder of two of Alaafin Labisi’s closest friends, which led to the heartbroken Alaafin taking his own life in 1750. Following Alaafin Labisi’s demise, Awonbioju became the new Alaafin, but Gaa’s rebellion led to his downfall, and he was put to death after just 130 days. Agboluaje, the next Alaafin, also met a tragic end due to Gaa’s treachery.
The fall of Bashorun Gaa
The fourth Alaafin to rule under Gaa was Majeogbe (1772-1773), who managed to poison Gaa, leaving him paralyzed. However, Gaa’s eventual downfall came during the reign of Alaafin Abiodun (1774-1789). Abiodun conspired with the Onikoyi and Are-Ona-Kakanfo Oyabi to kill Gaa, who had become a tyrannical figure. In 1774, a mob stormed Gaa’s compound, killing his household members, and Gaa himself was publicly incinerated at Akesan market.
Gaa’s death led to the popular saying, “Bi o laya ko seka, sugbon bi o ba ranti iku Gaa ki o so oto,” meaning “If you are brave, venture into wickedness, but if you remember Gaa’s death, adhere to the truth.”
Alaafin Abiodun ruled peacefully but later committed suicide in 1789 after facing criticism for attacking Ijaye and Popo. The empire’s subsequent destabilization and loss of military strength contributed to its eventual fall in 1836/1837.