Ilawe-Ekiti

Ilawe-Ekiti is a historic Yoruba town in Ekiti State, near the border with Ondo State, founded around the 13th century — unusually, it has remained on its original site ever since, unlike many neighboring towns that relocated over the centuries. The town is divided into eight traditional quarters: Okebedo, Okeemo, Irorin, Aaye, Okepa, Okeloye, Iro, and Adin. Its inhabitants trace Yoruba lineage back to Ile-Ife, with a documented history of migration from Benin as well. Christianity arrived in Ilawe-Ekiti in the early 20th century, becoming legally established in 1904, followed by Catholic and Christ Apostolic Church congregations.