Tuesday, 6 May 2025

Oke Idanre Hill – Full Historical Account

(1). Geographic and Natural Context

Oke Idanre is located about 15 kilometers southwest of Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

The hill rises over 3,000 feet (approximately 914 meters) above sea level and spans about 800 square kilometers.

It features a unique landscape of ancient granite outcrops, valleys, streams, and thick forests.

(2). Ancient Human Settlement

The hill was home to the Idanre people for over 800 years, making it one of the oldest known continuously inhabited places in southwestern Nigeria.

According to oral history, the Idanre people migrated from Ile-Ife, led by a royal leader named Olofin Aremitan. They settled at Oke Idanre to find safety and spiritual guidance.

The settlement on the hill was not only a defense strategy (due to elevation) but also had religious significance.

(3). Key Historical Structures on the Hill

You can still find ruins and preserved landmarks of the ancient settlement:

■ Owa’s Palace

The residence of the traditional ruler (Owa of Idanre) before the relocation.

Built with traditional mud and stone techniques.

■ Ancient Courtroom (Ibi Akoso)

This was where the king and elders settled disputes and maintained law and order.

■ Old Primary School

One of the earliest forms of Western education in the region; it served the hilltop community before relocation to the lowlands.

■ Ancient Burial Sites

Burial grounds for past Owas and notable leaders of Idanre, often marked with stone structures.

(4). Sacred and Spiritual Sites

Oke Idanre is deeply spiritual for the people. Some key religious sites include:

■ Agboogun’s Footprint

A mysterious footprint etched into solid rock, believed to belong to a hunter named Agboogun, an early settler and warrior.

Legend says the footprint fits any visitor’s foot regardless of size.

■ Orosun Shrine

Dedicated to the goddess Orosun, a powerful local deity associated with fertility and protection.

Annual festivals and sacrifices are held in her honor.

■ The Old Market and Sacrificial Sites

Spaces where locals once traded and performed ritual sacrifices to gods for rain, good harvest, or protection.

(5). Cultural Beliefs and Practices

Idanre culture is rich with Yoruba cosmology. The people believe the hills are alive and home to spirits.

Traditional festivals like the Orosun Festival attract worshippers and tourists annually.

Only initiated individuals can access some sacred parts of the hill.

(6). Colonial Influence and Relocation

When the British arrived in the early 20th century, they encouraged the people to relocate to the base of the hills for better access to:

Infrastructure (Roads, Schools, Hospitals)

Commerce

Administration

By the 1920s and 1930s, most of the Idanre population had moved downhill, forming what is now known as modern-day Idanre town.

(7). UNESCO Recognition

In 2007, Nigeria submitted Oke Idanre to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, citing:

Its exceptional fusion of natural beauty and cultural tradition.

Its ancient civilization and well-preserved monuments.

It is under review for full heritage site status.

(8). Tourism and Preservation Today

Oke Idanre is a major tourist attraction with 667 steps leading up the hill.

Efforts have been made to preserve its natural ecosystem, historical monuments, and sacred sites.

Local guides share the history and myths with visitors, helping keep oral traditions alive.

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