By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

A prominent community leader in Egbaland, Chief Mustapha Abdulhakeem has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, courage and a shared sense of purpose in the pursuit of a fairer and more equitable society.

Chief Mustapha, who is the Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland, in a statement made available to Vanguard in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, urged all sons and daughters of Egbaland to draw inspiration from the enduring values of resilience and collective action exemplified by the legendary Lisabi Agbongbo Akala.

“I challenge all of us to imbibe the spirit of Lisabi in our efforts to build a just and equitable society,” he said.

He stressed that meaningful change begins with a committed and informed populace, noting that historical lessons and cultural heritage remain vital tools for addressing contemporary challenges, particularly in promoting social justice and inclusivity.

Highlighting the importance of collaboration in nation-building, Mustapha added: “together, we can shape a better future for the next generation.”

Reflecting on the historical journey of the Egba people, he described it as “a powerful story of courage stretched across generations — a story that begins in resistance, passes through hardship, and finds fulfillment in unity and identity.”

At the centre of this narrative is Lisabi, the visionary 18th-century leader who mobilised Egba communities against the dominance of the old Oyo Empire, where they had long been subjected to tribute and political subordination.

“Lisabi was not merely a warrior; he was a strategist,” he said. “He understood that unity was the foundation of resistance and cleverly used the Aaro communal system to build trust and coordination among his people.”

According to him, Lisabi’s innovative use of cooperative structures enabled the Egba to organise a calculated revolt that dealt a decisive blow to external control and set the people on the path to self-determination.

However, he noted that victory did not immediately translate into stability, as the collapse of established power structures across Yorubaland plunged the region into prolonged turmoil.

“For decades, our people wandered in search of safety. It was a defining era that tested resilience, yet the spirit of independence ignited by Lisabi never faded,” he said.

He explained that the eventual settlement of Abeokuta in the early 19th century, guided by traditional Ifa divination, marked a turning point in Egba history. The location, nestled around the iconic Olumo Rock, provided both security and an opportunity for rebirth.

“Abeokuta was more than a geographical choice; it was a turning point. It became the place where fragmented groups reunited, governance was restored, and a shared identity was strengthened,” he stated.

From a once-dispersed people, the Egba, he said, evolved into a cohesive and organised society capable of defending its territory and shaping its destiny.

Today, that legacy is celebrated through cultural events such as the Lisabi Festival, which he described as both a remembrance of the past and a source of inspiration for the future.

“Beyond the festivities lies a deeper meaning. It reminds us of the sacrifices that made our present possible and the enduring value of collective action and long-term vision,” he added.

Drawing lessons for contemporary Nigeria, Akinfiwatolu emphasised that transformative change often demands sacrifice and foresight.

“Lisabi may not have lived to see the full impact of his actions or the rise of Abeokuta, but his courage set in motion a process that defined a people. That is the lesson for us today — meaningful change often comes at great personal cost,” he said.

As preparations intensify for the festival, the High Chief reiterated the need for renewed commitment to unity and national development.