Long ago, in the Ajomagbodo compound of Ogbomoso, the forefathers were known as skilled babalawo (Ifa priests), fearless hunters, and courageous warriors. Their lives were not driven by wealth or property—in those days, power was the ultimate prize. It was in the midst of a war (loju ogun) that fate revealed the spirit that would later be known as Egungun Ajomagbodo. During battle, the ancestors encountered a sacred object called ere in Yoruba. When they returned home, they consulted Ifa—the oracle that never lies—and discovered that the ere was in fact a masquerade spirit destined to live among them. At first, it bore the name Dagboro, a name it chose for itself, promising that whenever called, it would respond. The drummers too played rhythms befitting Dagboro, and the name became known across the land. From Dagboro to Ajomagbodo The change of name came after a fateful clash between masquerades. During a festival, different egungun displayed their powers, but a fight broke out. The strength of Dagboro seemed diminished afterward, and once again, the elders turned to Ifa for guidance. The oracle revealed that a new name must be given, and so it became Ajomagbodo. The name itself carried a meaning rooted in its unique way of performing—while other masquerades would sit on chairs or stools (apoti), Ajomagbodo would only sit on one thing: the odo (mortar). It would spin gracefully, seat itself on the mortar, dance with agility, and then leave the mortar behind—never carrying it away. A Century of Power Ajomagbodo has lived for over a hundred years, carried by four generations, each chosen directly by Ifa. No one inherits it by will or wealth—the oracle alone decides who will bear its sacred duty. Its role in the town is that of a healer and protector. When evil is sent into the community, Ajomagbodo walks over it, reversing its effects. It wards off planned accidents, misfortunes, and spiritual attacks. It also answers the prayers of those seeking children, promotions, or breakthroughs—provided they approach with faith. Signs of Its Appearance The coming of Ajomagbodo is never without a sign. A mysterious mist (kurukuru) often fills the town. If rain has been falling, it stops the moment the masquerade appears—and sometimes resumes only after its departure. Its costume is as ancient as its spirit. Since inception, the core garments have never been remade; only worn sections are carefully repaired. This is because its attire cannot simply be sewn at will—it is bound by sacred tradition. A Performing Spirit Ajomagbodo is known as a performing masquerade. Its dances are a spectacle, full of grace and mystery. And when the mortar is placed before it, the crowd knows the performance will be unlike any other—the mortar spins, the spirit dances, and the people watch in awe. For over a century, Ajomagbodo has remained a guardian spirit, a healer, and a source of wonder to the people of Ogbomoso, its presence a living link between the past and the present.