THE SPREAD OF ANARCHY AND FALL OF AFONJA

An interregnum followed the last reign but for how long, it is not known; after which Majotu was placed on the throne. The whole country was at this time in the greatest disorder, wars and rumours of war being the order of the day. The tocsin of war resounded from every quarter, and the new King found himself incapable of coping with the situation.

The Epos, imitating the Kakanfo at Ilorin organized a military band which they called Ogo Were (i.e. the Jackals) at the head of which was the Aresà but with what object in view, it was not known. The Kakanfo received the news with mixed feelings of jealousy and suspicion; he sent and enquired of Toyeje the Bale of Ogbomoso his Otun i.e. commander of his right, what he understood by that movement. Toyeje could not say. War was in consequence declared against the Epos, and several towns in that province were taken, only Ogbàhágbàhá and Iwo amongst the principal towns escaped. Ilobu and Ejigbo amongst the Ibolos were also taken, and the Ogo Were suppressed.

Afonja was now the sole power in the kingdom; the King and the capital were left to manage their own affairs by themselves.