Oka-Akoko is the headquarters of Akoko South-WestLocal Government of Ondo State, Nigeria. It is a majorly agricultural community with hilly terrain.The paramount and traditional ruler of Oka Akoko Kingdom is the Olubaka of Oka.[1]
Oka-Akoko, also known as Oka, traces its roots back to the ancient city of Ile-Ife, the source of Yoruba culture. The name Oka is a contracted form of Okarufe, meaning Oka-Ife. According to oral traditions, three groups of settlers from Ile-Ife; Sirin, Siru, and Sifa, led to the establishment of Oka. The Sirin group comprises four quarters: Ibaka, Ikese, Korowa, and Okia. The Siru group comprises five quarters: Ebinrin, Okaodo, Owake, Iwonrin, and Ebo. The Sifa group comprises six quarters: Owalusin, Agba, Ikanmu, Iboje, Owaase, and Idofin. The group led by Asin settled in the lower and southern part of the hills and became known as Okaodo, while the group led by Okikon settled on the mountaintops and eastern part of the hills and became known as Okaroke, now referred to as Oke-Oka.[3]
A short oral history of Oka Akoko in Oka Akoko langauge by Gbenga Omoaye, a native speaker on the 20th of May 2021 in Akure, Ondo state
Tourist attractions
Oka-Akoko is surrounded by numerous hills arranged in a circular formation, making it a scenic destination. These hills are a popular tourist attraction due to their natural beauty and opportunities for adventure. Another notable attraction in the area is the Oke-Maria Catholic Grotto, which draws visitors. The grotto's history dates back to when Rev. Father Seminati, who traveled from Lokoja to Oka Akoko, discovered the site's tranquility and spiritual significance. During his stay, he reported experiencing an apparition of the Holy Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, which inspired him to mark the spot as sacred. According to Father Seminati, the apparition was said to be a singular event, but it sparked a wave of devotion among locals and visitors. In December 1974, the diocese gathered to erect a statue of Holy Mary at the site and consecrate the hill as a place of prayer. Since then, the Oke-Maria Catholic Grotto has become an international Marian Pilgrimage Centre, attracting devotees and tourists alike.[4]
New Yam Festival
The New Yam Festival is an annual celebration held in Oka Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. The festival takes place every first Saturday of August and marks the official start of the new yam harvest. During the festival, achievements of individuals within the community are recognized, including investors, philanthropists, and notable figures. Chieftaincy titles are conferred upon deserving sons and daughters of Ọkà Àkókó, as well as non-indigenes who have made notable contributions to the community. The Oka Yam Festival has become a symbol of unity among the people of Oka Akoko and the broader Ondo State community. It serves as a rallying point for the town's sons and daughter Of Oka Akoko to promote Cultural heritages.[5]
Oka-Akoko Obas-in-Council
The following is a list of the traditional chiefs and monarchs that make up the Oka-Akoko Chief-in-Council:[6]
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