Kiriji War Story and the Right of Ekiti State to Preserve Its History

By Banji Adelusi, National Director, Media & Publicity, TAMPAN

My attention has been drawn to a recent online publication of a news media  initiated by one Eniola Ehinafe, former TAMPAN Governor in Ekiti State warning the Governor of Ekiti State not to sponsor any project related to the Kiriji War story on the grounds that the story  is already being handled as Film Project by some individuals. 

While I commend all genuine efforts to document and preserve Yoruba history, I find such a warning misplaced, and frankly, an affront to both historical truth and the sovereign interests of Ekiti people.

The Kiriji War was not the story of one person, one town, or one organization—it was a pivotal moment in Yoruba history that involved many communities, especially those in present-day Ekiti State. As such, it is not only appropriate but also necessary for the Ekiti State Government to support initiatives that ensure the war’s legacy is preserved for future generations.

History is not a proprietary endeavor. It cannot and should not be monopolized. The efforts of individuals or private bodies to work on this subject are welcome and encouraged, but they do not preclude the State from taking its rightful place in the documentation and promotion of its heritage.

The Governor’s interest in supporting the Kiriji War story is rooted in a deep commitment to cultural renaissance, education, and tourism development. The Ekiti people deserve to see their ancestors’ courage honored through state-sponsored research, storytelling, and public engagement.

Collaboration towards documenting this history is encouraged—not confrontation. Therefore, let all who have invested in this story come together in the spirit of unity and respect, rather than attempt to gatekeep the collective history in which the ancestors of Ekiti people were deeply involved.