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| The Story of Bayajidda, the Founder of Hausa States |
The Story of Bayajidda, the Founder of Hausa States
Bayajidda is a legendary figure in the history of the Hausa people. He is said to be the founder of the seven Hausa states, which are the origin of the Hausa culture and language. Whether he was a real person or a myth, the story of Bayajidda is fascinating and influential.
Early Life:
Bayajidda was born as Abuyazid, the son of King Abdullah of Baghdad. His name means "the father of Yazid" in Arabic. According to the legend, he fled Iraq when Queen Zidam conquered Baghdad and invaded Nigeria through Lake Chad. He arrived in Gazargamu, which is present-day Borno state.
Occupation:
The legend does not focus much on Bayajidda's occupation, but it suggests that he was a skilled horse rider and hunter, as most royals were at that time. His main occupation, however, was ruling the city of Daura, which is now part of Katsina state.
When did Bayajidda Arrive in Nigeria?
There are two versions of what Bayajidda did when he arrived in Nigeria. In one version, he planned to overthrow the king of Gazargamu, who had a weaker army than him. The king heard about his intention and offered him his daughter, Magaram, in marriage to appease him. Bayajidda accepted and stayed in Gazargamu.
The king then tricked Bayajidda into giving up his men to guard his new conquests, leaving him with only a slave and his wife. When Bayajidda realized that he had been deceived, he escaped from Gazargamu at night and headed west to Garun Gabas, which is now in Jigawa state.
Bayajidda's Death and Legacy:
There is not much information about when and how Bayajidda died, but some sources suggest that he lived a long and prosperous life. He left behind a lasting legacy as the founder of the Hausa states and the ancestor of many Hausa rulers.
Bayajidda's Controversy and Sources:
The legend of Bayajidda is not without controversy, as some historians doubt the existence and accuracy of such a figure. They argue that he is a mythical character created to unify the Hausa people and justify their political and cultural dominance. They also point out the many inconsistencies and variations in the legend, which has been passed down orally for generations.
The only written record and the most authentic source on Hausa history is the Kano Chronicle, which was compiled by the prince of Daura, Alhassan AbdurRahman, at the request of his father, the emir of Daura, AbdurRahman Dan Musa. The Kano Chronicle traces the genealogy and history of the Hausa states from Bayajidda to the 19th century.
