Yoruba Monarchs Rally Behind 140th Kiriji Peace Treaty Anniversary






Prominent traditional rulers from across Yorubaland have confirmed their participation in the symposium commemorating the 140th Anniversary of the Historic Kiriji Peace Treaty, further strengthening royal support for the landmark celebration.

The symposium is scheduled to hold on Monday, 21 September 2026, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Among the confirmed royal fathers are Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosho; HRM Oba (Engr.) Enoch Ademola Akinyemi, the Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile, Oyoyo II; Oba (Dr.) Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila; and Oba Dokun Thompson Gureje IV, the Oloni of Eti-Oni.

Others are Oba (Dr.) Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Owa Obokun Ajimoko III; HRM Olumuyiwa Aguda, the Olu Kajola Isikan; and Oba Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti.

The event, themed “140 Years of Peace, Unity and Yoruba Heritage: Reflecting on the Legacy of the Kiriji Peace Treaty,” will bring together traditional rulers, government officials, scholars, diplomats, cultural leaders, corporate organisations, peace advocates, members of the media and representatives of the Yoruba diaspora.


The Kiriji War was one of the longest conflicts in Yoruba history. Its conclusion through negotiation and the peace agreement of 1886 remains a significant example of indigenous diplomacy, dialogue and conflict resolution.

The anniversary commemoration will therefore not only revisit the events surrounding the war but will also examine the relevance of the treaty’s lessons to contemporary peace-building, regional cooperation and sustainable development.

The confirmation of the Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile carries particular historical importance, as Imesi-Ile remains closely connected to the Kiriji story and continues to serve as a custodian of the heritage associated with the war and its peaceful resolution.

Similarly, the participation of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland reflects the historical role of Ijesa communities and personalities during the Kiriji era. The presence of the Soun of Ogbomosho, Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oloni of Eti-Oni, Olu Kajola Isikan and Oore of Otun-Ekiti further demonstrates the broad regional significance of the commemoration.

The Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation described the confirmations as an important demonstration of royal commitment to the preservation of Yoruba history and the promotion of unity across the region.

The monarchs are expected to contribute cultural depth, historical insight and traditional authority to conversations on reconciliation, heritage conservation, youth education, community development and the future of Yorubaland.

The Foundation also called on governments, educational institutions, corporate organisations, cultural bodies, development partners and members of the public to support and participate in the historic anniversary.

The commemoration is expected to serve as a platform for remembering the sacrifices of the past, celebrating 140 years of peace and renewing the collective commitment of the Yoruba people to dialogue, unity and sustainable development.

The enduring message of the Kiriji Peace Treaty remains clear: even after prolonged conflict, reconciliation, diplomacy and collective understanding can restore peace and create a stronger future.

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