British conquest · January–February 1897
The Company takes Bida and Ilorin
In early 1897 the Royal Niger Company’s army under George Goldie marched on the two southern emirates of the Caliphate.
Overview
In early 1897 the Royal Niger Company’s army under George Goldie marched on the two southern emirates of the Caliphate. Bida fell after two days of fighting in late January and its Etsu was deposed; in February Ilorin was shelled and taken. Bida’s own subjects helped the Company: the north-east Yoruba, the Kyadya boatmen and the Yissazhi faction of the old Nupe dynasty, who were given the emirate of Pategi.[2],[3],[4],[1]High confidence
Who took part
- British forces· Colonial force
- Bida emirate (Nupe)· Defended
- Ilorin emirate· Defended
What happened
- 6 January 1897 · Kabba
The march to Ogidi and the Kabba declaration
A Company force of 30 European officers and 513 African soldiers leaves Lokoja for Ogidi via Kabba to strike Bida’s army there. The camp has gone, so the Company declares the north-east Yoruba free of Bida. Kabba gives porters and guides for the march to the Niger.[1]High confidence
- January 1897
The Kyadya change sides
Kyadya boatmen under Marike, promised the title of Kuta, ferry the Company across at Kpatagbon and refuse to carry Bida’s retreating army.[1]High confidence
- January 1897 · Bida
Bida falls
After two days of fighting the town is taken and Etsu Abubakar is deposed.
- February 1897 · Ilorin
Ilorin taken
Ilorin is shelled and occupied.
Kingdoms involved
Sources
Every claim carries a confidence level: high (well attested), medium (one source or approximate) or disputed (sources disagree).