The Yoruba people who today exist as peaceful loving people had long histories of internal wars. One of the most popular tribal wars in world history is the Kiriji or Ekiti-parapo War, lasting from 1877 to 1893.

The Yoruba people who today exist as peaceful loving people had long histories of internal wars. One of the most popular tribal wars in world history is the Kiriji or Ekiti-parapo War, lasting from 1877 to 1893.

 It is considered the longest inter tribal war in the world.

This 16-year conflict, primarily between Ibadan and the combined forces of Ekiti and Ijesha, earned its onomatopoeic name "Kiriji" due to the thunderous cannons used by the Ekitis and Ijeshas under Ogedengbe's command. 

Despite the advantage, the war ended in a stalemate, marking the conclusion of all wars in Yoruba land. 

Remarkably, the Yoruba are the only ethnic group to engage in civil wars for 73 years (1820-1893) and still remain united as one tribe today.

Photo: Yoruba Warriors 1893 (Chief Ogundipe and Jaguna)

Journal of Manchester Geographic Society MayowaBlades 

Credit: Historical Africa Yoruba