In the tranquil town of Ilu Ajẹ, nestled along the route to Oyo just beyond Fiditi, a unique community thrives amidst lush farmlands.
Contrary to an old, unverified tale, Ilu Ajẹ is not merely a gathering of witches—it is a story of divination and prosperity.
Ilu Ajẹ, or the “Town of Witches” in literal translation, is situated between Ilora and Jobele in Oyo State’s Afijio Local Government Area.
Originally named for its auspicious connotations of business success (“Ilu Aje” means “Town of Prosperity”), fate altered its course due to a crucial event involving Akinyolu, a revered herbalist and Ifa diviner from the region.
Legend has it that during the reign of Alaafin Ladigbolu or Alaafin Adeyemi II, an unprecedented crisis struck the empire—an emperor’s son had vanished, plunging the realm into turmoil.
Despite exhaustive efforts, including searches across Oyo town and consultations with herbalists and magicians far and wide, the young prince remained elusive.
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Amidst this despair, an enigmatic figure named Akinyolu emerged in Ilu Ajẹ. Despite his humble appearance, he offered a unique solution: a cryptic divination involving shea butter trees and rhythmic clapping.
Skeptical yet desperate, the Alaafin followed Akinyolu’s instructions.
Miraculously, on the 21st clap beneath the shea butter tree, the lost prince reappeared, ending the kingdom’s anguish.
Impressed by Akinyolu’s prowess, the Alaafin bestowed honors upon him, elevating him to the status of Alaje and granting him lands in the forest outskirts.
As Akinyolu’s settlement flourished, it acquired the name “Ilu Aje,” in homage to his mystical foresight and the town’s newfound prosperity.
Over time, the phrase “ilu adifaṣẹ bi ajẹ” (a place of divination akin to witchcraft) condensed into “Ilu Ajẹ,” symbolizing not sorcery but the enduring legacy of a sage’s wisdom.
Far from a town of superstition, Ilu Ajẹ embodies resilience, community, and the profound impact of one individual’s insight on an entire region.
Welcome to Oyo, where stories intertwine with destiny, and legends shape the land.
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