Oyo Empire 17th century, Oyo began a long stretch of growth, becoming a major empire. Oyo never encompassed all Yoruba-speaking people, but it was the most populous kingdom in Yoruba history. The key to Yoruba rebuilding of Oyo was a stronger military and a more centralized government. Taking a cue from their Nupe enemies (whom they called "Tapa"), the Yoruba rearmed with armor and cavalry. Oba Ofinran, Alaafin of Oyo, succeeded in regaining Oyo's original territory from the Nupe. A new capital, Oyo-Igboho, was constructed, and the original became known as Old Oyo. The next oba, Eguguojo, conquered nearly all of Yorubaland.
History of the Yoruba people site of earth creation in the Yoruba mythology. As Oduduwa migrated to Ile-Ife, he had a son and he became the first ruler for the Oyo empire. The Oyo kingdom has subjugated the kingdom of Dahomey. It traded with European merchants on the coast through Ajase. The wealth of the town increased and as well as political leaders wealth increased. This was not resolved till Abiodun went against his opponents in a bitter civil war and had a rule for economic development based on the trade with European merchants. The downfall of the kingdom came as Abiodun became concerned with