History of Ogbomoso: From Ogunlola's Settlement to the City of the Soun

Ogbomoso is one of the largest cities in Oyo State, home to LAUTECH, a historic Baptist heritage and a proud people often called "Ogbomoso Ajilete." But how did it all begin? Here is a short guide to the history of Ogbomoso.

Ogunlola, the hunter

According to oral tradition, Ogbomoso was founded in the 17th century by a hunter named Ogunlola, who settled near an Ajagusi tree with other hunters. The settlement grew as more families joined for protection against raiders.

How Ogbomoso got its name

The most popular story says Ogunlola and his fellow hunters defended the area against an invading warrior called Elemoso. After Ogunlola defeated him, people described the place as "Ogbori Elemoso", meaning "the place where Elemoso was beheaded." Over time, this was shortened to Ogbomoso (also spelled Ogbomosho).

The Soun of Ogbomoso

The traditional ruler of Ogbomoso is the Soun. The title traces back to Ogunlola, whose leadership was recognised by the Alaafin of Oyo. Over the centuries, Ogbomoso grew in size and influence, receiving many people displaced by the 19th-century Yoruba wars.

• Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi, Ajagungbade III reigned for nearly five decades until his death in December 2021.

• Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, was installed as the 21st Soun of Ogbomosoland in September 2023.

Growth into a modern city

From the late 1800s, American Baptist missionaries made Ogbomoso a major centre for churches, schools and healthcare, including the Baptist Medical Centre (now BUTH) and the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary. In 1990, LAUTECH was established, bringing thousands of students to the city. Today Ogbomoso spans five local government areas and remains an important centre for trade, farming and education in the region.

Ogbomoso today

Ogbomoso is known for its strong community spirit, its large diaspora across Nigeria and abroad, and its love for homecoming events. Its history continues to shape its identity, from the palace of the Soun to the many descendants of Ogunlola who still call the city home.