Aganju of Oyo
Emperor of Oyo (in present-day Nigeria)
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Legacy
Aganju is believed to have been responsible for monumental building around the seat of power, including 100 brass posts marking his authority.[3][4] These posts figure in later histories but none are known to still survive.[5] His reign was said to coincide with a flourishing of industry, including the introduction of leatherwork at Oyo.[6] The Alaafin's palace's 'Kobi Aganju' or 'Courtyard/Porch of Aganju' is said to date from his reign and is named for him.[7][8][9] The porch section, called the 'Oju Aganju', was at the entrance of the ancient, now ruined, palace, and was "waiting hall of chiefs during coronation and other activities."[10]
Oral history
Oral histories of his period of rule were transcribed by the Rev. Samuel Johnson, a Sierra Leone born clergyman who published his history as 'The History of the Yorubas' in 1921.[11] In it he records Aganju as succeeding the historical Shango through the ruler's brother and Aganju's father, Ajaka and was in turn succeeded by his wife Iyayun.[12][13] Johnson describes his reign as the first of the "historical" rulers, and a time of growth, Aganju's reign being "long and very prosperous."[14] Aganju's bride was captured in war with a rival 'Aganju the Onisambo', and at the end of his reign, the Alaafin was said to have had his only son from a previous wife was killed for attempting to seduce Iyayun. Aganju was then said to have died, "overcome with grief."[15] Iyayun's unborn child was meant to succeed Aganju, with the mother acting as regent.[16] His son was named Kori, and ascended the throne following the regency of his mother.[17]
Oral histories also describe Aganju as being able to tame animals, including "venomous reptiles" and a leopard he kept in his palace.[18]