ORIGINS, CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS OF THE PEOPLE OF ÀGBÒYÍ, LAGOS, NIGERIA

Odeyemi Oluwole Jacob & Ajuwon Oluwatobiloba Morenike

Department of History and International Studies

Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Oyo State

Email: odeyemioluwole6@gmail.com, tobzy1618@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

This is a historical research into the origins, customs and traditions of Àgbòyí town, an island settlement situated in Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos state, Nigeria. It is an in-depth study of its origin; its socio-economic and political organisation; and the customary traditions and way of life of its people. Àgbòyí people are predominantly of the Àwórì sub-group of Yoruba. Indigenous religions and festivals are till this day in popular practice among the people who had vowed never to jettison the traditional heritage of theirancestors. Such ancient religionsand festivals include Ògún, Orò, Yemoja, Egúngún, Gèlèdé, Awo Opa (Opa Cult) and the Òsúgbó/Ògbóni Cult). Àgbòyí could be aptly thus be described as an oasis of customs and traditions within the modern metropolitan Lagos. The study observed that the economic activities of the people aredominated by fishing (typical of the natives of riverine settlements) though a number of other traditional crafts also existed. Àgbòyí people enjoy good relations and inter-marriages with their neighbours, and this significantly boosted peace, trade and commerce. The ambience of the water bodies and the peaceful attitude of the people make trading easy, interesting and rewarding for all and sundry, hence, Àgbòyí is also dubbed Ìlú Ajé (town of prosperity). However, the study uncovered that two distinct families,Ògúnloye and Òdòyí have been contending for the soul of Àgbòyí as its first settler and owner. At the time of this research, it remains a matter for litigation awaiting adjudication atthe courts. This paper could however be described as an abridged report of the general findings.