Fakoli was initially identified as Sumaguru’s nephew and general-in-chief, and his intervention was credited with helping Sumaguru defeat Mani. Their relationship broke down after Sumaguru took Keleya Konkon, Fakoli’s nephew’s wife, following a feast at Mani. In response, Fakoli crossed the Niger with his army and joined the allies assembled at Sibi.

Fakoli’s defection deprived Sumaguru of his most capable lieutenant before the decisive confrontation. At Kirina, he fought alongside Sundiata’s coalition against the Soso army. His military reputation continued in Mandingo traditions, which remember his feats through the warrior song called jfanjon, or “glory to the warrior.”

The conquest attributed to Fakoli extended southward toward the forest and into the upper Senegal River region. His descendants are associated with the Cissoko, Dumb u ya, and Koroma clans, while ritual objects and war regalia connected with him were preserved at Norassoba in Guinea. These traditions link military memory to clan identity and local sacred institutions.