In the ancient lands of the Yorùbá people, the vast and powerful Oyo Empire held sway over numerous towns and villages. Its dominance was maintained through a strict network of tribute collectors, feared by all. These collectors enforced the empire’s will, turning the Oyo Kingdom into a symbol of power and control across the region. Lísábí the Uprising: A Journey into the Egba Rebellion
Also Read: Albert Einstein’s
The Tension Between the Oyo Empire and Neighbouring Villages
The movie opens with an atmosphere of anxiety, curiosity, and uncertainty. Dark clouds of fear loom over the land as the Aláàfin of Oyo is angered once again. The scene intensifies when the Ọlọdan of Ọlọdan is violently dragged into the palace, creating shock among viewers. This bold act sets the tone for the movie—one of oppression and rebellion.
Kneeling before the Aláàfin, the Ọlọdan refuses to be intimidated, reaffirming his bravery by rejecting the exorbitant tribute demands of the Oyo Empire. This leads to a flashback, where the audience sees the events that led to his capture.
The Spark of Rebellion: A Tribute Too High
In a dramatic flashback, the tribute-collector demands more tribute, claiming that what was offered wasn’t enough for the Aláàfin. The defiant Ọlọdan refuses to comply, boldly telling the collectors to inform the Aláàfin that his people would no longer pay tribute. This defiance angers one of the collectors, Sangodeyi, who returns at night and sets the Ọlọdan’s palace ablaze, leading to his capture.
Sangodeyi: The Rise of a Tyrant
Upon hearing of Sangodeyi’s loyalty, the Aláàfin rewards him by appointing him as the leader of the tribute collectors. Sangodeyi quickly turns into a terror, abusing his newfound power. His cruelty intensifies as he forces himself on the maidens, exploit resources, and kills the people of Egba land, turning what was once a peaceful region into one of fear and sorrow.
Lísábí’s Stand: A New Hope
On the outskirts of the village, Lísábí, a humble farmer, rejoices over his bountiful harvest. He meets his friend Oṣokẹnu, who jokes about his laziness, revealing his romantic interest in Abebi. The lighthearted moment contrasts sharply with the terror spreading throughout Egba land.
As the tribute collectors continue their reign of terror, Oṣokẹnu confronts them after the abduction of a local girl. But his bravery is met with tragedy when his bride-to-be, Abebi, is ambushed and raped by the collectors on their wedding day. In a fit of rage, Oṣokẹnu kills ten tribute collectors, only to be gunned down in retaliation. His death sends shockwaves through Egba land.
The Birth of a Movement: Lísábí’s Call to Arms
Oṣokẹnu’s death deeply affects Lísábí, who decides it’s time to take action. He forms a group called the Farm Helpers, fostering unity and teamwork among the people. Through this, Lísábí tests their commitment to fighting against oppression. The movement grows, catching the attention of the king, who is pressured by the Aláàfin to stop it.
Lísábí, however, has grander plans. At midnight, he gathers his followers in a dark forest, revealing his true nature—a powerful leader with mystical abilities. He introduces them to his strategy for defeating the Oyo Empire, not with farming tools, but with guns and magic.
The Supernatural Forces: Allies of Lísábí
Lísábí summons four mystical creatures to aid in the battle: Jogbo, the shapeshifting warrior; Akilapa, the invincible demon; Alabalaṣẹ, a fierce woman of strength; and Ẹyẹ, the spy. Together, they fortify the Egba people, preparing them for a war against the Oyo tribute collectors.
The Final Battle: Lísábí vs. Sangodeyi
The battle between Lísábí and Sangodeyi got the atmosphere very intense, with both men calling upon supernatural powers. As incantations fill the air, the two clash in a battle that can only be described as a fight between gods. In the end, Lísábí summons a mystical sickle, severing Sangodeyi’s head and bringing an end to his reign of terror.
Conclusion: Is this going to be a Victory or the Beginning of More Sufferings?
Though Sangodeyi is defeated, the question lingers: Will the death of a single tyrant bring freedom to the Egba people**, or will it mark the beginning of even greater suffering under the still-powerful Aláàfin of Oyo?
Leave a Reply