Representation of Despotism and Revolutionary Temper in Adébáyọ̀ Fálétí’s Baṣọ̀run Gáà: A Hermeneutical Analysis of Èṣù Òdàrà

Abstract

Baṣọ̀run Gáà was a hegemonic and dictatorial prime minister of the Old Òyó Empire. His leadership style has attracted the attention of some scholars, with the exception of his literary and filmic representation. This study, therefore, investigates despotic acts of Gáà and the consequent revolutionary temper. Adébáyò Fálétí historicizes the life and times of Gáà in his film titled Baṣọ̀run Gáà (2004). Adopting Antonio Gramsci’s hegemony as the framework, this study aims at exploring Gáà’s commodification and usurpation of power and resultant revolutionary consciousness of Aláàfin and Òyó people. Deploying fear, espionage and fetishism, Gáà hegemonizes the polity by becoming an unquestionable ruler. Even the king pays him obeisance to allow him enjoy his reign. However, following the wanton killing of his only child (Àgbònyín) by Gáà, Aláàfin declares war against Gáà which eventually leads to Gáà’s disgraceful end. Thus, revolutionary consciousness is instrumental in ending despotism in both Yorùbá and Nigerian polities.