WEEK 5: IGALA KINGDOM

v.. IGALA KINGDOM

INTRODUCTION
The Igala people are located at one of the natural crossroads in Nigerian geography, the
Niger-Benue confluence and this has brought them into contact with a wide range of
people. The Igala people presently occupy Kogi State, Nigeria.

TRADITION OF ORIGIN
There are several versions of the origin of the Igala people according to oral tradition.
One claimed ascendancy with the Yorubas, the second with Jukuns and the third
claimed close connection with the ancient Benin Empire.
According to one local tradition, Agenapoje is believed to be the ancestor of the Attah
(king) of Igala. This local tradition stated that Agenapoje landed on a rock very close to
Idah and was sent from the gods. It was Ayagba that succeeded Agenapoje.

FACTORS THAT LED TO THE RISE OF THE IGALA KINGDOM

These were as follows:
a. The able leadership of the Attah: He united the people and promoted peace and
political stability in the kingdom. For example, the Igala kingdom flourished at the
same time with the Benin and Oyo empires.
b. Agrarian economy ( Agriculture): The fertile environment supported agricultural
activities and led to the growth of the kingdom.
c. The introduction of Islam: By the early 19th century, Islam was introduced from
Kanem-Borno and Hausaland into the Igala kingdom.
d. Inter-group relations: The Igala kingdom interacted with other Nigerian groups
through trade and exchange of culture. For example, Igala’s means of succession, royal
regalia, and languages etc. were related in many ways with the Yoruba, Jukun and the
Benin people.

POLITICAL ORGANISATION OF THE IGALA KINGDOM

The Attah of Igala called Attah Igala (i.e the king of Igala) was the political head of the
kingdom. He was assisted by the council of chiefs/king makers, who were nine in
number. They were known as the Igala-Mela. The royal court of the ancient Igala
kingdom was known as Ogbede.
The ancient Idah town was the capital seat of power and control in the Igala kingdom.

ECONOMIC ACTIVITIS OF THE IGALA KINGDOM

1. Trade Igala kingdom developed markets at various parts of the kingdom to promote
trade among the lgala people and their neighbours.
2. Agriculture
3. Traditional industries ( arts and crafts)
4. Tribute.

FACTORS THAT LED TO THE FALL OF THE IGALA KINGDOM

a. Weak leaders
b. Attack of the Fulani Jihadists: The attack by the Fulani jihadists on Igala kingdom
weakened the kingdom and led to her fall in the 19th century.
c. The coming of European imperialists: The occupation and control of the Niger-Benue
confluence by the British led to the fall of the Igala kingdom.
d. Weak army