Multilateralism in Medical Care in Colonial West Africa: The Okun-Yoruba People 1884-1915

Aiyemowa Bamidele, Bello Rachael Oluwafunmilayo, Asimi Jimoh Elebiyo.

Abstract

The synthesis of multilateralism in medical care among the Okun-Yoruba people was contemporaneous with the emergence of colonisation. The study examine the religio-cultural belief system of disease causation and treatment modified in the concept of ethical monotheism in Okun-Yoruba tradition. It explores the evolving practice of multilateralism in medical care among the OkunYoruba people of colonial West Africa from 1884-1915. Offering a sharp contrast in the interplay between traditional Yoruba healing practices and Western Medicine introduced by the British colonial government and missionary societies. Despite the divergences in medical care and the unceasing colonial efforts to suppress traditional medicine, a broad coexistence and adaptation in the idea of medical care was forged. On the whole, the Okun-Yoruba people and their communities navigated multiple medical systems, incorporating the idea of Western Medical care while preserving the knowledge of traditional medical care. This study highlights the Okun-Yoruba medical traditions and their continued relevance in the wake of colonial pressures.