Egbú

Egbá refers to a Yoruba subgroup primarily found in Ogun State, Nigeria, with significant populations also in Lagos State and Oyo State. The Egbá people are renowned for their historical resilience, artistic traditions, and vibrant culture. Their origins trace back to Ile-Ife, the ancestral home of the Yoruba people, and they later migrated to establish their kingdom, Abeokuta, which translates to "refuge under the rock." This settlement was founded in the 19th century as a sanctuary for various Yoruba groups fleeing inter-tribal wars, particularly the Owu and Dahomey wars.

The Egbá society was traditionally organized into a complex system of chieftaincies and age-grade associations. Religion plays a central role in Egbá life, with traditional Yoruba deities such as Ogun, Sango, and Obatala being widely worshipped, alongside the pervasive influence of Islam and Christianity. Their economy has historically been based on agriculture, producing crops like yam, cassava, and maize, and trade, particularly in palm oil and later, cotton. The Egbá are celebrated for their rich oral traditions, intricate beadwork, and distinctive musical styles. Their language is a dialect of the Yoruba language, with unique intonations and vocabulary. The Egbá have made substantial contributions to Nigerian politics, arts, and literature, maintaining a strong sense of identity and heritage.