A tour to Akure is likely not to be a boring one provided you know where to go and what activities to engage in. Akure is a place of history. It is like every other Yoruba land with a long list of historical events, places and traditions that could send you off into paradise.
A Bit Historical Detail
There are rumors about the founding date of Akure, but no credible specifics at this time. However, historically, it has been a notable suggestion that Akure was established in AD 1440 which is many centuries from now. It is unlikely to speak of an established Yoruba Kingdom without touching the city of Ife, or the involvement of Oduduwa as a person, and this goes hand in glove with other Yoruba Kingdoms.
Let’s get down on a few stories, shall we?
Like many other Yoruba history, it is quite hard to pinpoint which story is true and which isn’t. To me, I think we’re all about which story hits hard. Crucify me if I’m wrong.
To the people of Akure, a few indigenes believe that ife is the sacred spot where the earliest occupant of the Akure Land emanated from. It is also believed that Akure was founded by a prince named Omoremilekun, the son of Ekun and grandson to Oduduwa, the royal progenitor of the Yoruba Kingdom. A few others pride in the name “Akure Oloyemekun”, which was derived from the first monarch of the Akure town called “Asodeboyede” who was believed to be the son of Omo Ekun Asodeboyede. A lot more stories intrigues me, one of which is how the “Akure” name came about.
It is said that the Prince left Ile-Ife, the city of his grandfather’s kingdom, in search of a place to settle. At the point where the prince and his entourage arrived at the exact location of the modern Akure city, the line holding the royal beads on his neck together is said to have snapped, thus causing the people to exclaim “Àkún re” (meaning: the beads have snapped). This was believed to be a divinely communicated instruction to make there a dwelling place. With time, the phrase “Akun re”was whittled down through its constant use to become Akure.
Historical Places to Visit
Akure is a land with numerous historical stories, and these stories are attached to places, events, buildings/structure and people. Amongst the many things you want to miss, you definitely don’t want to miss out on these great places if you’ll be in Akure anytime soon.
Igbo Olodumare (Forest of God’s):
The Igbo Olodumare is a thick evergreen forest believed to have harbored spirits, divinity and assumed to have been a good site for spiritual activities. More so, in further years, with the impact of modern lifestyle, and various industries, the forest has become a good site for camping, movie sets, picnics and birds watching. A good number of people tour this place daily due to the natural feel it gives. It is a place you should see before leaving Akure city.
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The Deji’s of Akure Palace:
An adventure to Akure is only a façade without a visit to the Deji of Akure’s Palace. As stated earlier, every Yoruba land is a mighty jar of historical tales and structures to backup these claims, and Akure isn’t an exemption. A visit to the palace gives you great insight into historical events. The palace has overtime proven to be of great importance as people troop in to hear the wisdom tales and stories of predecessors who have passed and made great impact. The ever-interesting part are the structures you’ll see. I would leave you to imagine, but don’t bank on your imagination, ensure you visit.
Igbokoda Water front:
Akure and series of hard-to-pronounce names, it can be quite a push if you’re not a Yoruba breed. However, everyone is welcome to visit the Igbokoda waterfront. Igbokoda is one of the biggest and longest territorial waters in Nigeria. Close to this water front is a fishing terminal that allows tourist to explore various organisms in the sea. If you’re a fan of waterbodies, you definitely want to feed your eyes some great sightseeing.
Highlights on Amazing Facts about Akure
Akure’s King is known as the Deji of Akure. It is the oldest city in Ondo state. It has the oldest Homo sapiens fossils ever found in West Africa, dating back to around 11,000 years ago. The town is situated in the tropical rainforest zone in Nigeria. Akure is one of Nigeria’s best-kept tourism secrets.
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