Survival Strategy of an Emerging State beyond Warfare: Diplomatic Practices in Ilorin Emirate, Central Nigeria in the Nineteenth Century

Alabi, Oladimeji Mohammed

doi:10.21608/tjhss.2023.218274.1198

Survival Strategy of an Emerging State beyond Warfare: Diplomatic Practices in Ilorin Emirate, Central Nigeria in the Nineteenth Century

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Oladimeji Mohammed Alabi

Department of History and International Studies, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

10.21608/tjhss.2023.218274.1198

Abstract

The use of diplomacy as a statecraft was visible in precolonial Africa. It was primarily concerned with relations among states to achieve mutually beneficial agreements. Diplomacy in precolonial Africa included trade treaties, protection, supply of weapons, war pacts and alliances, defence accords and boundary delimitations. This study examines the dynamics of diplomatic practices in nineteenth century Ilorin Emirate. It adopted a historical research method, comprising the use of oral interviews and relevant written sources. Due to Ilorin’s heterogeneity, the first diplomatic move was to ensure harmony among its diverse groups. This internal diplomacy fostered peace among the federating units in the emirate. Externally, Ilorin made friends with adjoining emirates in Nupeland like Lafiagi and Bida, and distant states like Sokoto and Gwandu. Elements of Ilorin diplomacy included the long distance trade, Islam and Jihad, appointment of political and trade representatives, war pacts and alliances, particularly in the course of the Yoruba civil wars. Ilorin’s diplomacy was primarily to promote her political cum economic interests, even sometimes with political rivals as witnessed in Ilorin-Ibadan alliance at the Batedo war in 1844 and Opin war in the 1850s. Indeed, diplomacy was a strong factor in the process, which turned Ilorin’s diversity to strength. Appointees of the emir, such as fief-holders, Ajele, Babakekere, Magajis and Alangua, ensured the loyalty of vassal states and kept the influence of Ilorin alive in areas outside the metropolis. Diplomatic maneuvers contributed substantially to the survival of Ilorin Emirate in Yorubaland in the nineteenth century.

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