ABSTRACT
This chapter explores justification as a criterion of knowledge or component of epistemology among the Yorùbá people of West Africa. Knowledge among the Yorùbá presupposes that justification (ìfìdímúlẹ̀) is based on ìjẹ́ẹ̀rí (testification). However, what validates a testimony (ẹ̀rí) is the type of person the testifier (ẹlẹ́ẹ̀rí) is. Consequently, what qualifies a testifier is that they are Ọmọlúàbí. Therefore, justification among the Yorùbá is foundational and built on the virtue ethical concept of ọmọlúàbí. However, considering the idea of epistemic justification vis-à-vis ọmọlúàbí, certain questions are apropos. For instance, what is the significance of ẹ̀rí (testimony) to the acquisition of ìmọ̀ (knowledge) among the Yorùbá? Is it possible for one to be reckoned with as a testifier if one is not ọmọlúàbí? What are the distinguishing qualities of ọmọlúàbí? Is basing justification on a knower justifiable? How can knowledge acquired or justified via the process of ẹ̀rí (testimony) avoid the conundrum of epistemic tyranny? In considering these questions, the chapter underscores the significant nexus between knowledge, being, and ethics among the Yorùbá.
