Ibadan, the largest city in West Africa by landmass, has long been celebrated as a cultural powerhouse particularly for its profound contribution to the Yoruba language. Beyond its historical reputation and political authority, Ibadan stands out for something less physical yet deeply enduring: its people’s mastery of spoken words. Here, language is more than communication; it is an artistic performance, a social instrument, and a living reflection of the city’s character.
Residents of Ibadan are widely regarded as natural orators. Whether in lively markets, public gatherings, or social interactions, Ibadan natives wield words with precision, humour, and confidence. It is often said that everyone in Ibadan is a linguist not by formal training but by cultural inheritance. Even long-time observers admit they have never encountered an Ibadan indigene who lacks this remarkable flair for speech.
One of the city’s most distinctive traits is its tradition of situational wisecracking, a conversational style that blends wit, history, and subtle critique. These expressions are typically delivered in seconds, without hesitation. Anyone who doubts this vibrant linguistic tradition needs only take a trip to Oja ’Ba, the bustling central market where traders meet every comment with a sharp, well-aimed response.
At Oja ’Ba, no statement goes unanswered. Bargaining, complaining, or boasting often results in a quick retort that leaves outsiders surprised or laughing. To an Ibadan trader, an apt reply is as essential as the goods on the stall. These spontaneous exchanges demonstrate the city’s enduring devotion to language as a performance and a communal art.
Among Ibadan’s many witty sayings is the iconic reference to Adegoke Adelabu, fondly remembered as Penkemesi. The phrase “Adélabú ta panla ri…” a reminder of his days as a stockfish dealer is used to puncture irrelevant or exaggerated stories. If someone tries to impress by claiming unlikely connections, such as attending primary school with the late Chief MKO Abiola, an Ibadan native might simply reply, “Adelabu ta panla ri,” signalling that the story lacks substance.
Another well-known wisecrack is the proverb, “Bí Agbaje bá n wọ knickers ní ìgbòro Ibadan, ó mọ egbe baba ẹni tí ó n ṣe.” This refers to Agbaje Salami, one of Ibadan’s wealthiest merchants in his time. The idea that such an influential man could be seen wearing simple shorts reminds listeners not to judge by appearance. Ibadan elders use this expression as a gentle warning that external looks tell only a fraction of a person’s true worth.
Historical records show that Agbaje Salami produced Ibadan’s first medical doctor, Dr. Saka Anthony Agbaje, and its first legal practitioner, Chief Mojeed Agbaje. His accomplishments underscored the point that greatness often comes wrapped in simplicity. Hence, the proverb has endured as a timeless reminder that a cassock does not make a monk, and humility often accompanies true achievement.
Another classic Ibadan expression is, “Tí Oke Ibadan ò bá gba malu, kì í ṣe enu alágbàró ló yẹ kí a tí gbọ́.” This proverb warns against receiving important information from unlikely sources. Interestingly, this culturally grounded saying reached the writer through an Arab scholar, who translated Oke Ibadan as Jabal Ibadan in Arabic. The surprising origin highlights how far Ibadan’s linguistic reputation has travelled.
Ibadan’s linguistic treasure also includes sayings about prudence and ambition, such as “Mo fẹ́ kọ ilé mi bí ti Adebisi, èṣù àìní kò rárá ni.” This refers to Sanusi Adebisi Giwa of Idikan (1882–1938), one of Ibadan’s wealthiest historical figures. The expression warns that waiting to amass Adebisi’s level of wealth before attempting great projects may result in achieving nothing at all. It encourages people to start small and grow steadily a principle deeply embedded in the city’s worldview.
Families across Ibadan continue to pass down these sayings as tools for teaching, humour, and character building. The blend of wisdom and comedy makes the expressions memorable, and elders use them to counsel younger generations without sounding burdensome. The tradition has become a cherished element of the city’s social fabric.
But the verbal culture is not one-sided. Outsiders especially Lagos residents have developed their own humorous lines meant to mock or downplay Ibadan’s influence. One famous jibe is, “Iyalode Ibadan, omo Egbe nì l’Eko,” implying that a revered Ibadan High Chief ranks only as an ordinary association member in Lagos. Instead of irritation, many Ibadan people respond to such remarks with amusement, reinforcing their reputation for wit.
Another teasing phrase begins with “Ibadan tí ó… oju ló n rọ,” though many people today struggle to recall the complete version. These expressions reflect the long-standing rivalry between Ibadan and Lagos, fuelled by commerce, migration, and political history. The banter, often light-hearted, underscores the dynamic interplay between the two major Yoruba cities.
Yet behind all the jokes, retorts, and wisecracks lies a deeper truth: Ibadan is a city where humour, history, and language form an inseparable identity. Whether conveyed in proverbs, sharp market replies, or casual conversation, these expressions capture the soul of a city that celebrates intelligence, humour, and self-awareness. As more people share and document these sayings, Ibadan’s linguistic heritage continues to flourish, inviting others to join in preserving and celebrating its timeless charm.
