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Oka Akoko
Okarufe | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Oka-Akoko King's Palace | |||
Anthem:
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| Coordinates: 7°27′25″N 5°48′08″E / 7.45694°N 5.80222°E | |||
| Country | |||
| State | Ondo State | ||
| LGA | Akoko South-West | ||
| Government | |||
| • Type | LGA | ||
| • Olubaka of Oka-Akoko | Oba (Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON | ||
| Area | |||
• Total | 3.034 km2 (1.171 sq mi) | ||
| Population (1991) | |||
• Total | 44,309 | ||
| • Density | 14,600/km2 (37,820/sq mi) | ||
| Time zone | UTC+1 (WAT) | ||
| Website | https://okarufeculturalfoundation.org/ | ||
Oka-Akoko is the headquarters of Akoko South-West Local 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.
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.
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.