ALAJOBI (KINSMAN) AND ALALE (TOWN FOUNDING DEITIES): A BASIS FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL JUSTICE IN YORUBA TRADITION

Adebayo Adekunle Moses 

General Studies Unit, McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo Village, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Email: adebayoam@mcu.edu.ng

Abstract

Yoruba culture, originating from southwestern Nigeria, is one of the richest and most influential African cultures. Yoruba philosophy, as part of the culture, emphasizes the interconnectedness of human existence, community and the divine. The paper explores the interconnected concepts of Alajobi (kinsman) and Alale (town founding deities). It investigates their roles in shaping community development. There is limited understanding of Yoruba concepts in community development. The cold shoulder given to indigenous perspectives in development initiatives is a contributing factor to the problem of values bedeviling our modern society. This inadequacy is what the exploration of Alajobi and Alale’s interconnection tackles. The paper analyses their roles in community development, examines their implication for sustainable development initiatives. Through the hermeneutic approach of analyzing and interpreting Yoruba texts and oral traditions, the work finds out that Alajobi influences community member’s roles and responsibilities. Alale shapes community values and social norms. Interconnection between Alajobi and Alale is essential for community cohesion. For us to have steady community development initiatives, we must consider indigenous perspectives. The work therefore contributes in illuminating indigenous Yoruba perspectives on community development, By so doing, the paper challenges western dominated development discourses. Finally, the work informs policy and practices in community development initiatives.

Keywords: Yoruba tradition, community development, Alale, Alajobi, indigenous perspectives.