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A traditional ruler in Ikare-Akoko, in Akoko North East Local Government, Ondo State, has called on governments at all levels to support the development of cultural heritage and tourism centres.
The Owaale of Ikare Akoko, Oba Adeleke Adegbite Adedoyin, made this assertion during the 2023 annual Oloke Meji Tako Tabo festival where commuters flocked to climb the mountain wearing white attire.
Behind the king’s palace lies a prominent hill known as Oke Meji Tako Tabo. It served as the first point for the community’s settlement. Also, it was a place of refuge for indigenous people during times of war giving birth to the Oloke Meji Tako Tabo festival. It has become a tradition for the people of this ancient community to celebrate the hill’s significance.
The King emphasised the need for all stakeholders to collaborate in preserving the cultural heritage of tourist centres in Ondo State. He said: “I want to appeal to the government and stakeholders at various levels to assist us in developing our cultural heritage.
“Oloke Meji Tako Tabo Hill is a place of interest that attracts tourists both locally and globally due to its natural and cultural values, historical significance, natural beauty, and the leisure, adventure, and amusement it offers. Ikare has come alive since this celebration.
“The festival holds great importance for us as the people of Ikare Akoko, known as ‘Omo Olokemeji Tako Tabo.’ From ancient times, we had both male and female mountains here. In fact, we were told in history that during inter-tribal wars, our people relocated from the lower side to the hilltop, allowing them to repel the invaders.
“The festival is of significant importance, similar to the Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu land. People come from as far as the US and the UK to participate in this festival, leading to a two-week period where accommodations in the town are fully booked. It also serves as a source of income for hoteliers, contributing to local taxes, while traders experience high patronage during the festival, boosting business activities.”
The monarch also stressed that there has been a cultural decline due to civilisation and religious sentiments.
“The issue we face in this country is that we have traded our heritage to the Western world in exchange for religions. This may not be entirely beneficial. By the grace of God, the State and Federal Ministries of Culture and Tourism will be visiting next year, just as they did last year.”
Araba Yemi Elebuibon, a popular poet and Ifa priest who attended the festival, remarked that preserving the cultures and traditions of the Yoruba people is the responsibility of all Yorubas.
“Festivals like this bring our people together, providing an opportunity for community members to connect, strengthen social bonds, and build a sense of togetherness. This unity can enhance overall community well-being and stimulate local economies by attracting visitors who spend money on accommodations, food, souvenirs, clothing, and more,” he added.