Talk about one of the few places on earth that prides itself with a historic tradition of an “unmasked masquerade”, then you’re definitely talking about Okemesi!…
…a rustic and serene town located in the heart of Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Okemesi is said to have its origin from Ile Ife, the ancient seat and ancestral home of the Yoruba race.
It is known for its unique scenic terrain, low land which is rich in fertile soil, and its festivals, particularly, the Oladunwo festival.
Oladunwo is the name of the most revered Egungun (masquerade) in Okemesi.
It is highly respected because of its importance and the role it played in the history of Okemesi and her people.
Bounded on the East by Ikoro-Ekiti(the oldest town) and Ijero, on the South of Efon Alaaye, on the North of Imesi-Ile and on the West by Esa-Oke both in Osun State; history has it that Okemesi, Imesi-Ile, Ile-Ife and Ijesha are all related by blood.
Okemesi and Imesi-Ile (in Osun State) were once a single town.
However, a drive for adventure and desire to settle in a valley that protected her from neighborhood hostility brought the people of Imesi-Oke to what is now known as Okemesi.
OKEMESI is famous for having the best warriors this side of the Yoruba clan.
Oriki OKEMESI…
Oke agbona atiri Ogun, Oke ni idi Ogun. Oke ni ilu fabunmi orara Lada, Inu ogunmola yé sí agbe Omo oke latilati. OKEMESI Omo oloja oke, Omo afaganja.
Credit: Facebook
