Here’s a comprehensive list of all the Alakes of Egbaland (Abeokuta), from the foundation of the title in the 19th century till date.
The Alake is the paramount ruler of the Egba people, especially the Egba Ake section, and later became the overall head of all Egba subgroups (Ake, Owu, Oke-Ona, Gbagura) when the Egba united in Abeokuta after migrating from Ibadan and the collapse of old Oyo.
List of All Alakes of Egbaland (Chronological Order)
| # | Name | Reign | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sodeke (Title: Sagbua of Ake) | 1830 – 1845 | Led the Egba to Abeokuta, not titled “Alake” but regarded as founding leader |
| 2 | Okukenu Sagbua I | 1854 – 1862 | First official Alake of Egbaland in Abeokuta |
| 3 | Aka Asa (Regent) | 1862 – 1868 | Served as regent after Okukenu |
| 4 | Oyekan (Aderinoye) | 1869 – 1877 | His reign saw increased British interest in Abeokuta |
| 5 | Adegboyega Dosumu | 1877 – 1881 | Son of Sodeke |
| 6 | Gbadebo I | 1898 – 1920 | Strengthened ties with the British; played key colonial administrative roles |
| 7 | Ladapo Ademola II | 1920 – 1962 | Longest-reigning Alake; became Governor-in-Council under colonial rule |
| 8 | Adedamola Lipede (Gbadebo II) | 1963 – 1971 | Resigned voluntarily |
| 9 | Oba Oyebade Lipede (Alake Gbadebo III) | 1972 – 2005 | Reigned during Nigeria’s post-independence era |
| 10 | Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo (Alake Gbadebo IV) | 2005 – Present | Current Alake, a retired military officer and respected traditional ruler |
Summary of Key Contributions:
- Sodeke: Founded Abeokuta, created initial political structure
- Okukenu I: First to bear the full title Alake of Egbaland
- Gbadebo I: Modernized monarchy under colonial system
- Ademola II: Prominent figure during Nigeria’s pre-independence era
- Gbadebo IV: Current ruler, known for bridging tradition and modernization
