The Okun community constitutes more than 20% of Kogi State’s entire population, using the term “Okun” as a general descriptor for Yoruba people in Kogi State, Nigeria. Spread across six local government areas, namely Ìjùmú Kabba-Bunu, Yagba-West, Yagba-East, Mopa-Muro, and Lokoja, Okun people are also present in states like Kwara, Ekiti, and Ondo.
Despite diverse Yoruba dialects such as Owé, Ìyàgbà, Ìjùmú, Bùnú, and Oworo being spoken among the Okun people, they are collectively referred to as Okun. Notably, the subtle differences in these dialects may go unnoticed by those outside the community, as each speaker confidently uses their dialect, trusting that other Okun listeners will comprehend without difficulty.
Interestingly, every Okun individual is proficient in the common Oyo-Yoruba dialect, even without venturing outside Kogi. The Okun way of life and dialects are significantly shaped by factors like diversity, history, and the state’s geography.
Kogi State stands out as a cultural hub with a myriad of ethnic groups, including Ebira, Igala, Hausa, Bassa, Igbo, and others. The Ogugu sub-group of the Igala tribe, Kakanda, Gwari, Oworo people, Ogori, Bassa komo, Magongo, Eggan, and communities under Lokoja Local Government Area add to the state’s ethnic tapestry.
Geography plays a crucial role in Okun People’s history, considering Kogi State shares borders with ten other states and the Federal Capital Territory. Historical factors, such as the Nupe wars of the 19th century and interactions with the Hausas, have left a lasting impact on Okun identity.
According to oral history, Okun people migrated from the ancient town of Ile Ife as part of the Yorubas’ quest to spread and occupy more lands. Challenges arose when a leader failed to attend the yearly meeting in Ile-Ife, resulting in the loss of acquired land to other migrants. This led to the nickname “Iya agba” and mockery whenever messages were sent to him at his occupied territory, now called Yagba.
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Throughout history, Okun people faced challenges such as geo-political zoning, disunity, marginalization, and identity issues. British colonial politics led to their cession to the Northern protectorate, merging with Ilorin in 1967 to form old Kwara state. In 1991, they separated from Kwara, merging with Ebira, Igala, and others to form the present Kogi state.
Despite persistent efforts for a new Okun State, proximity to their kin in the Southwestern part of Nigeria remains elusive. The people continue to bear typical Yoruba names, and many of their towns and villages are named in Yoruba language.