Moremi Ajasoro is a Yoruba legend known for her heroic feats and bravery. According to folklore, she was a beautiful princess who lived in Ile Ife in the 12th century and later got married to the King of Ile Ife, Oba Oramiyan. During that period, Ile-Ife had been at war with a neighboring Igbo “Forest” tribe for several years, who the Yoruba referred to as “the Forest people” not to be confused with the Ìgbòs of modern Nigeria. Scores of the citizens have been enslaved overtime leaving the community exposed and an object of ridicule amongst its peers.
Moremi, quite frustrated by the unending battles, loss of lives and properties decided one day to do something about it. Moremi painstakingly went through diverse options and resolved to go with an espionage mission. However, before embarking on the death-defying journey, Moremi consulted the revered river deity of Ile Ife, Esmirin. Esmirin assured Moremi of a safe return and as gods are inclined – quid pro quo – Latin for something for something or better yet nothing for something, Esimirin requested a sacrificial offering. Moremi, quite prepared to ensure the safety of her people at all cost made a pact with river god to offer the richest sacrifice she can afford upon the successful completion of her mission.
Upon the next Igbo invasion, Moremi strategically allowed herself to be captured and using her beauty and charm as an armory she quickly became integrated into the Igbo society, eventually becoming the Queen of the ruler of the Igbo kingdom. Now part of the inner chambers, Moremi then knew that the combat uniforms of the Igbo warriors which were made from raffia palms and grass are both highly flammable. With the secrets of the Igbo army known, Moremi escaped to Ile-Ife and revealed their vulnerabilities to the Yorubas. The Ile Ife army equipped themselves with burning torches to ignite the Igbo combat regalia therefore repelling them on their next raids. Following the war she returned to her first husband, King Oramiyan of Ife who immediately reinstalled her as his Queen.
With mission completed, Moremi made offerings of numerous livestock to Esmirin. Esminrin declined these offerings and reminded Moremi that she had pledged her most precious asset as sacrifice. Ultimately, Moremi had to painfully offer her only son Olurogbo to the river god, which made the community decide that they will be her daughters and sons until the end of time. A promise they continue to fulfil, Moremi is revered all over Yoruba Land and stories of her exploits have been passed down from generation to generation.
The Edi festival is celebrated annually in honor of the great heroine. In 2017, Oba Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife erected a statue of Moremi in his palace. The statue is the tallest in Nigeria at 42 feet with 30 risers and the third tallest in Africa. It is constructed right on the spot Moremi lived several centuries of years ago, hundred percent constructed by Nigerian engineer with locally sourced materials.
Recently, BAP productions and House of Oduduwa premiered Queen Moremi, the Musical, bringing to life the deeds and achievements of the Amazon though music, dance and indigenous attires.
The spirit of Moremi continues to inspire us, if you find yourself in Ile Ife, make sure you pay Moremi a visit and come tell us about it. We welcome your pictures.