Iyalode (title)

Iyalode is a high-ranking traditional title present in most Yoruba communities, culturally it is conferred to a woman by the monarch, however Njoku (2002) argued that the process of choosing an Iyalode in pre-colonial Nigeria is less of a choice by the traditional monarch, and more of the accomplishment and involvement of the woman in economical and political matters. Historically, Iyalode did not only serve as representatives of women in the council, but also as political and economical influencers in precolonial and colonial Nigeria.

Referred to as the "voice of females", Iyalode views are normally considered in the decision-making process by the council of high chiefs. Olatunji (2017) from Tai Solarin University of Education likened the role played by Iyalode to that of modern day feminism. He furthered in explaining that a former Iyalode, Madam Tinubu was so significant, being one of the richest Yoruba persons in the 19th century, and a major player in who becomes king.

Mosadomi (2010) opined that the influence of the Iyalode has never been limited to being just among the women, but transcends towards the entire political, cultural and religious structures among both genders of the Yoruba people, citing Madam Tinubu and Efunsetan Aniwura as obvious examples. Sofola (1991) corroborates it by stating that "nomatter how powerful an Oba (ruler) may be, he can never be an Iyalode". According to professor Olasupo, , the authority of the Iyalode title in modern Nigeria is not as prominent as it used to be. Alaafin of Oyo identified cultural extinction caused by "modernity" as reasons for the development. He recalled that women had more important roles in the leadership circle of Yorubaland in the past. Former Iyalode of Lagos, Madam Tinubu is reported to have wielded so much power that she stopped the Oba of Lagos from making Lagos a British colony for some period.

The present Iyalode of Yorubaland is Chief Alaba Lawson, who was coronated by Alaafin in 2008.