The Ife/Modakeke Crisis An Insider View

Abstract

The History of Ile-Ife, the Ancient Capital City of Yorubaland is mythical. No one can say about the origin and the year it was created. It is the home of antiquities and ancient works of Arts in terracota, Ivory, Bronze and woodcarvings. The age and the origin of the city is shrouded in mystery that has not been solved. Even that legend Oduduwa met Ife Aborigines when he arrived at the ancient city. In the center of the city is the Aafin (Palace) of the Ooni, who is the traditional head of the Ife Kingdom. Surrounding the palace are city sections grouped into areas in the traditional patter. Each section of the city has a traditional chief who is in charge of the affairs of the area for better administration. Obalufe (Orunto) is next in Rank to Ooni. The towns administration is carried out by the Ooni through Obalufe, he also controls Iremo, Obajio controls Moore; Obaloran controls Ilode; Wasin controls Ilare; Obalaaye controls Iraye the original name for Modakeke. ) IFE PsychologIA Volume 9 no 3, 2001, pp. 14-20