The name Yusuf Ayinde Amuda Afolabi, popularly known as Amuda Olorunosebi, occupies an important place in the traditional history of Oyo Alaafin. As the Asipa of Oyo Kingdom, he was one of the principal members of the Oyo Mesi, the council of kingmakers responsible for the selection and oversight of the Alaafin. The office of Asipa, historically regarded as a position of municipal authority, has long been recognized as central to the governance of Oyo. Early historical accounts, including those documented by Reverend Samuel Johnson, describe the Asipa as a leading voice in the administration of the town.
Amuda Olorunosebi rose to this distinguished position in 1976 during the reign of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, a period that also witnessed the creation of Oyo State from the former Western Region. His tenure was marked by influence, wealth, and extensive social connections across Yorubaland. Beyond his traditional responsibilities, he was widely known for his involvement in agriculture. His fish farming operations in the Ijawaya and Ajegunle areas of Oyo were among the most expansive in the region, and he was regarded as a strong advocate for farming as a sustainable occupation, particularly for young people.
In early November 1992, two individuals identified as Segun Oduneye and Abiodun Faseyitan paid him a visit, claiming to represent an agricultural enterprise seeking land for a fishery project in Oyo. They presented a letter of introduction and were received in accordance with customary hospitality. Following initial discussions, the Asipa directed his aides to show them suitable land at Ijawaya. The visitors expressed satisfaction with the land and indicated their readiness to proceed. Over the following days, they made repeated visits and eventually requested that the Asipa personally accompany them to the site to confirm ownership.
On 26 November 1992, after attending a family event, the Asipa agreed to visit the farmland in their company. He was accompanied by aides, including Ganiyu Ajiboye and Raimi Ishola. Upon arrival at the site in Ijawaya, the situation changed suddenly when an armed individual, whose identity was concealed, emerged and opened fire. In the confusion that followed, one of the aides managed to escape, while another sustained serious injuries. The Asipa was left at the scene with the attackers.
The incident was reported to the police shortly thereafter, prompting an immediate response led by the Divisional Police Officer in Oyo, while higher authorities in Ibadan and Lagos were also notified due to the status of the victim. Upon arrival at the scene, the body of Asipa Amuda Olorunosebi was discovered near his fish ponds. Preliminary findings indicated that although a firearm had been used, the gunshot alone did not immediately result in death. Evidence suggested that the attackers subsequently employed sharp weapons, confirming that the killing was both premeditated and executed with calculated brutality.
The assassination of the Asipa represented a significant moment in the traditional and social history of Oyo. As a prominent member of the Oyo Mesi, his death raised serious concerns about security and the vulnerability of high-ranking traditional figures. It also highlighted the use of deception as a method of gaining access to influential individuals. The death of Amuda Olorunosebi remains one of the most notable criminal incidents in the history of Oyo in the late twentieth century, serving as a lasting reference point in discussions on leadership, trust, and the preservation of traditional institutions.
Source: Onigegewura
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