PRINCE TAYO AKINYEMI EXPLORES ÌGÓSÙN CAVE, HIGHLIGHTS UNTAPPED TOURISM POTENTIAL IN AYETE

Ayete, the headquarters of Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State, became the focus of attention on Friday, January 2, 2026, as Prince Tayo Akinyemi explored Ìgósùn Cave, a historic natural monument within the town.

The visit, which began as a family picnic, was redirected by Prince Tayo Akinyemi toward discovering local heritage sites in Ayete. On arrival at the old Ayete Town Hall, he was warmly received by a former President of the Federation of Ayete Students, Comrade Olaosun Saheed, alongside Daniel Asolo. The exploration team was later joined by Barrister Ope Tijani, a legal practitioner and childhood friend of Prince Tayo Akinyemi.

While driving through the Ibarapa North Local Government Secretariat area en route to Muslim High School, Ayete, Prince Tayo Akinyemi and his companions encountered a scenic valley and identified a pathway leading to a rocky hill where the cave is located.

The cave, known locally as Ìgósùn Cave, is formed by the natural convergence of two massive rocks. According to accounts shared during the visit, the cave served as a refuge for the people of Ayete during the 18th-century Dahomey war that ravaged several Ibarapa communities.

Prince Tayo Akinyemi observed that the cave maintains a naturally cool atmosphere despite the hot weather, remaining unaffected by rainfall or direct sunlight. He described the experience as unique and suitable for tourism and historical preservation.

After exploring the cave, Prince Tayo Akinyemi proceeded to Isamuni Hills, where he spent time with his family in a relaxed and festive environment.

Following the visit, Prince Tayo Akinyemi called on the Ibarapa North Local Government to draw the attention of the Oyo State Government to the tourism value of Ìgósùn Cave. He noted that with proper development and promotion, the site could attract local and international visitors while contributing to cultural preservation and economic growth.

He also expressed appreciation to the Ayete Students’ Union and Alhaji (Engr.) Suliman Azeez for their hospitality and support during the visit.