Sango establishes Oyo as an independent kingdom

After Oranyan founded Oyo near the Niger (on land granted by the king of Borgu after Nupe opposition), early Alafins were warrior leaders. Ajaka was deposed and replaced by Sango, a powerful warrior who made Oyo independent, subdued Owu, and moved the capital to Oyo Ajaka; he later died by suicide after disputes with his chiefs. Oyo emerged as a strong kingdom in the mid-16th century after Bariba and Tapa (Nupe) attacks.