The enduring impact of the 1804 Fulani Jihad on Igbomina society

Abstract

The Islamic revolution that swept through Western Sudan in the 19th century brought into existence the estwhile Sokoto Caliphate that dominated the political landscape of a considerable proportion of the area that later became Nigeria. While British Colonial intervention brought to an end the exercise of political power by this empire at the beginning of the 20th century, the socio-cultural and religious influence of the Fulani Jihadist have remained all pervasive in the day to day life of the people especially the Igbomina of Kwara State even during and in the post colonial era. The article considers the mode of integration of the Igbomina into Ilorin Emirate, consequently Sokoto Caliphate and how the exercise of imperial authority have almost denied the subject people any rudiment of separate identity and independence. Despite the disruptive iinfluence of colonialsm, Ilorin influence remainsunmitigated in the people’s life. The article concludes that the present cry of marginalization of Igbomina people in Kwara Sate politics is a relic of the enduring impact of its past subservience under Ilorin Emirate administration. Key words: Igbomina, Ilorin emirate, Fulani Jihadist, Oyo empire.