Yoruba Identity Extends Beyond the South-West, but Ilorin’s Future Should Be Decided by Its People
Nigeria’s geopolitical zones do not fully define its ethnic, linguistic or historical communities. Yoruba-speaking and Yoruba-related peoples live beyond the South-West, including Okun communities in Kogi, Yoruba communities in Kwara, and Yoruba-linked communities in parts of Edo State. These communities have distinct dialects, migration histories, traditional institutions and identities. Their connections to the wider Yoruba world deserve documentation, but historical links should not be used to erase identities that have developed independently over centuries. The Itsekiri, for example, have longstanding Yoruba connections but remain a distinct ethnic group. Ilorin presents an especially complex case. The city has deep Yoruba roots and links to the old Oyo Empire, yet the Ilorin Emirate, Islamic scholarship, historical ties to the Sokoto Caliphate and long interaction with Northern Nigeria have also shaped its political and cultural outlook. If Nigeria is ever restructured, Ilorin should not be assigned to any region solely on the basis of ancestry, religion or old political boundaries. Its people should have the opportunity to decide through a credible constitutional referendum or plebiscite. History, culture and economics should guide the discussion, but public consent should determine the outcome.
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