In the heart of Badagry, heavy iron cannons sit in quiet dignity. Today, they are tourist attractions and historical landmarks, but nearly two centuries ago, these weapons were the ultimate symbols of power, wealth, and the struggle for human dignity.

A Grim Currency: The Price of a Soul
Historical accounts from our elders reveal a chilling reality of the 19th-century barter system.

Before the abolition of the slave trade, these cannons were not just weapons; they were a form of high-stakes currency.

The exchange rates were staggering:
• One Large Cannon: Valued at 100 human lives.
• One Small Cannon: Valued at roughly 40 human lives.

This "Gun-Slave Cycle" fueled decades of conflict, as local powers sought the superior firepower of British artillery to protect their borders or expand their reach.

1843: From Trade to Transformation
The year 1843 marked a turning point. As Britain shifted its focus toward suppressing the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the role of the cannon changed. Under the command of Commodore Henry William Bruce, British forces utilized these weapons to dismantle the pro-slavery stronghold in the region.

This military intervention eventually led to the presentation of two significant cannons to The Wawu of Badagry. These were gifts of alliance, intended to empower leaders like Oba Akitoye—who favored the British anti-slavery movement—over those who sought to continue the trade, such as Oba Kosoko.

Where to Find the Relics Today
For those looking to connect with Badagry’s past, these "silent storytellers" are still visible today.

They serve as physical reminders of our long journey toward freedom. You can find preserved cannons at:

• The #Wawu Compound: Where the primary historical relics are kept.
• #Agonrin Beach: Specifically around the Tuskuvi and Fanuvi areas.

These cannons are more than just rusted iron; they are witnesses to the resistance and the eventual victory of the human spirit over the dark era of the slave trade.