Toyin Falola: Kingship studies should be introduced in African universities

Toyin Falola, a professor of history at the University of Texas, says kingship study should be introduced in African universities.

He said this while delivering a lecture at the Ajayi Crowther University in Oyo state, on Monday.

While speaking on Alaafin in Yoruba history, culture, and political power relations, Falola said kingship can be used to teach comparative histories of kings, kingdoms, and empires.

The revered professor who titled his lecture ‘Alaafinology: The ideology and epistemology of kingship’ said kingship studies will promote a multidisciplinary approach bringing together varied subjects which will shine light on the understanding of historical ideology.

Falola said students must be given a thorough history of how sacred kingship has been perceived and how it has evolved over time.
He added that instructors must ensure that all theories on the significance of and purposes for sacred kingship are covered.

“Contents can, as a result, range from historical examples of kingships to theories on the development of civilizations and religions,” he said.
“Naturally, in Africa and across maintained sacred kingships, the extent of the sacred kingship cycle of power varies, depending on location.
“Even so, the cycle has yet to be entirely broken. It makes up a significant part of the history and even modern culture of the African people.

“Therefore, it is arguable that the youth of Africa should learn of the use of sacred kingship as well as its influence, even within the context of a globalizing world with democracy as the globalized ideal.

“Once the students understand the significance of symbolism generally, they must then examine how and why specific symbols (for instance, those found on Yorùbá  ọbas’ crowns) are culturally significant specifically to the Yorùbá people.

“The instructors must inform the students that symbols, while powerful, only convey an important message if the message is relevant to the intended audience. Students must study the various rituals found in sacred kingships across the  African continent after they are presented with knowledge on the history of symbolism and sacred kingship.”