Archeologists Converge On Iwo Historical Site, Harp On Historical Preservation

Nigerians have been urged to work towards preserving historical sites for the upcoming generation to avoid the extinction of their Rich Cultural Heritage.

This was the core message as Historians and Archeologists visited the ancient “Igbo-Orita” in Iwo, Osun State.

The Historical And Cultural Association in Osun State led by its Chairman, Professor Supo Ladipo and the Secretary, a Retired Permanent Secretary, were at the origin of the town for the preservation of its historical heritage.

Speaking at “Igbo -Orita” where the settlers of the town first converged when they migrated to the community from Ile-ife, the cradle of the yorubas, the Association Chairman said their mission was to establish where the tombs of the founders of the town like Telu, son of Ogundigba, Eruwa, Aderounmu and others were erected through the helps of archeologists.

He stated that, discovery of their tombs were essential to establish the actual place they were buried at Igbo-orita after their death which was not preserved and noted by those in existence during the time due to the Stone Age.

According to him, the archaeological experts were invited with their discovery machines to fish out where “parrot bird”, the symbol of the town existence first perched at Igbo-Orita of the town.

“We are doing this to preserve our cultural heritage and conduct historical research on the place for proper preservation and documentation. They will excavate the place, study and analyze and actualise the dates and places of their burial. Where they came,they will know, when they left, we will know and to also preserve it for historical, heritage and tourism purposes”.

In an interview with one of the archaeologists and Director, Natural Museum Centre, OAU, Ile-Ife, Professor Adisa Ogunfolakan, he described the development as commendable and assured that the purpose would be fulfilled through the experts.

Ogunfolakan said” we are here in “Igbo-Orita” for the restoration of Iwo history and to conduct the town’s historical research for heritage site of settlement of Iwo ancestors.”

He stressed that, “Telu who was the son of Ogundigba, eruwa instructed deity and IFA worshippers from Ile-Ife to settle where they find parrot at Igbo-Orita and all these must be ascertained whether carried out or not.”

In his remarks at the event, Oluwo Of Iwoland, Oba Adulrasheed Akanbi expressed appreciation on what he described as remarkable event and affirmed that, with the development, the town is progressing in preserving its heritage.