By Owolabi Precious, Ado-Ekiti

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Nestled in the heart of Ekiti State, the ancient town of Ipole Iloro stands as a testament to the deep historical and cultural roots of the Yoruba people.

His Royal Majesty, Oba Ezekiel Babatola Oladele J.P., the 43rd Olupole of Ipole Iloro, traces the lineage of his people to Ile-Ife, the cradle of the Yoruba race.

One of Ipole Iloro’s greatest treasures is the Arinta Waterfalls, a breathtaking natural wonder that has fascinated visitors for generations.

“If anyone with a skin disease comes here to bathe, by the time you see him or her after six months, he or she would have become a different person,” locals claim.

Folklore tells of a hunter who stumbled upon the falls while on an expedition. Overwhelmed by its beauty, he named it Arita, meaning, “I trek, I hunt, and I have found a wonder,” since then, the waterfall has become a symbol of the town’s natural heritage.

Despite its potential as a major tourist attraction, Arinta Waterfalls remains underdeveloped. In 1965, journalist and activist, Tai Solarin visited the site and published its significance in national newspapers, bringing it to public attention.

Subsequent efforts by the Ekiti State Government, including road construction projects, have improved accessibility, yet much remains to be done.

Oba Oladele has been vocal about the need for greater investment in the area. He has petitioned Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to revoke the contract of the current private investor managing the site, citing inadequate development efforts.

Visitors currently struggle with basic amenities, such as access to drinking water and proper security, limiting the site’s potential as a major tourist destination.

The community believes that with the right investment, Arinta Waterfalls can be transformed into a world-class tourist site. Proposals have been made for the construction of guest houses, recreational facilities, and adventure trails to enhance visitors’ experiences.

According to the  Executive Chairman of Ekameta LCDA, Dr. Leye Adeniji Ipole Iloro is part of the larger Ekameta LCDA, which also houses the famous Ikogosi Warm Springs and Erin Waterfall.

The region holds immense potential as a tourism hub. Plans are underway to showcase its historical and natural landmarks, including the site of the first plane crash in Africa, which occurred in 1942 in Igbo Ilapa.

As stakeholders continue discussions on how best to harness the town’s tourism potential, collaboration among the local government, traditional institutions and private investors is crucial for sustainable development.

With proper infrastructure, marketing, and investment, the town can attract global tourists, creating economic opportunities for the community.

For now, the people of Ipole Iloro hold onto their rich heritage, hoping that their ancestral home, with its deep historical roots and natural wonders, will soon receive the recognition it deserves.

Ekiti State’s rich tourism potential has once again come into focus as journalists push for its development. Led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, Kayode Babatuyi, a delegation recently toured the arinta Water falls, highlighting its untapped economic benefits.

Babatuyi emphasised the need for government intervention, pointing out the site’s ability to generate revenue, if properly developed.

He called for improved infrastructure, guest houses, and recreational facilities to attract both local and international tourists.

“This site has immense potential, but urgent steps must be taken to enhance its appeal,” he stated.

Journalists noted the site’s breathtaking features, with some climbing up to the fourth stage of the seven-tiered waterfall.

They stressed the importance of better roads, signage and promotional efforts to boost tourism.