The Iyalode Alaba Lawson That I Know “My Regret” – Oluwatoyin Mathnuel
By Naomisophyblog
In Yoruba mythology, culture, and traditions, Iyalode is revered as the female leader of women in a settlement. Iyaode, or Iyalode as generally called by the Yorubas, holds a position of significant influence, especially concerning women’s affairs, similar to the role of a minister in a democratic setting. In essence, Iyalode is akin to the Minister of Women Affairs in modern governance. In traditional settings, the Iyalode not only commands authority but also possesses a palace and is accompanied by guards, signifying her esteemed position in the community.
As a teenager who frequently visited my maternal hometown, located in Afijio local government of Oyo state, I had firsthand experience with the authority vested in Iyalode; . Iyalode Ojelabi, affectionately called ‘Iyaa wa’ meaning ‘our mother’ by all, would gracefully walk among seven formidable guards, each adorned with ‘igbadi’ (a voodoo item) around their waist and upper arms. These guards, armed with local guns known as ‘Ibon Sakabula,’ were accompanied by a young boy, ‘omo-ode,’ carrying an empty basket on his head, anticipating gifts from villagers. The gifts typically included vegetables, mushrooms, yams, bush meats, and other perishable and non-perishable items, bestowed upon her by admiring villagers during her bi-weekly journey from the king’s palace to her own, situated 15 kilometers away.
Observing the power and authority of Iyalode during my formative years strongly influenced my belief in the significance of figures like Iyalode Efunsetan Aniwura of Ibadan, Iyalode Efuroye Tinubu of Lagos, Iyalode Bisoye Tejuosho of Egba land, and others whose historical impact resonated with me.
As an indigenous, grassroots community reporter, I have encountered numerous Iyalodes, but one that stood out was Chief Mrs. Alaba Lawson. Despite never having a close interaction with her, two distinct encounters left a lasting impression on me.
Sometime in the month of October, 2019, during the installation of Aare Iyalode of Egbaland, In person of Chief Mrs Sikiratu Ejide Adeyanju Sokopau, ( The Iyaloja General of Oshodi) at the palace of HRM Oba Aremu Gbadabo, The Alake of Egbaland, I observed Chief Mrs. Alaba Lawson’s grace, fair complexion, and charming smiles. Her role in training, tutoring the newly installed Iyalodes how best the monarch Oba Aremu Gbadebo is to be greeted showcased her agility, vibrancy, and audible demeanor. Intriguingly,
Despite being a simple Iyalode, her humility and respect for media as she gave out her contact and insisted I call which I never did for reason best known to procrastination left a lasting impression on me.
Four years later, at the 5th-anniversary coronation of HRM Oba Abdul Kabir Obalanlege, “The Olota of Ota-Awori”, on May 10th, 2023, I encountered Iyalode Alaba Lawson once again. Though she recognized me, our interaction was brief, leaving me with a sense of missed opportunities for an exclusive interview about her role as Iyalode of Egbaland and the Yoruba at large.
The news of her passing on October 28, 2023, weighed heavily on me, as I reflected on the unfulfilled promise of a simple call that could have led to a memorable encounter. The regret lingers as I acknowledge the loss of valuable insights from a septuagenarian, knowledge that could have enriched my role as an indigenous, grassroots reporter covering tradition and culture.
Read Also:No Dull Moment With Oyalode Alaba Lawson, She was a very blunt Disciplinarian – Aare Iyalode Ejide Socopau
In her memory, I bid farewell to Chief Mrs. Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson, The Iyalode of Egba and The Yoruba Land. The realization of procrastination as the thief of time and the potential ruination it brings if not quickly call to order serve as a poignant reminder.
Adieu Chief Mrs. Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson, The Iyalode of Egba and Yoruba Land.
