Nestled along the banks of the Yewa River, where the golden savannah meets lush farmlands, lies the ancient town of Oke-Odan—a place where history whispers through the rustling leaves of age-old baobab trees. For generations, this proud Yoruba settlement in Yewa South, Ogun State, has stood as a beacon of culture, courage, and community.

A Land of Kings and Warriors

Long before colonial maps were drawn, Oke-Odan thrived as part of the Egbado kingdom, a land of fierce warriors and wise rulers. The town’s name itself, meaning &qout;the hill of the brave,&qout; speaks to its legacy of resilience. Its people—Yoruba farmers, hunters, and traders—shared the land with their Ègùn (Ogu) neighbors, blending traditions and languages into a rich cultural tapestry.

One of Oke-Odan’s most famous daughters was Princess Aina, born in 1843. Her life took a dramatic turn when Dahomey warriors raided her village, leaving her orphaned. Fate intervened when British Captain Frederick Forbes rescued her and presented her to Queen Victoria, who renamed her Sara Forbes Bonetta and raised her as her goddaughter. Sara’s story, from the heart of Oke-Odan to the palaces of England, remains a testament to the town’s enduring spirit.

From Ancient Roots to Modern Times

As centuries passed, Oke-Odan evolved, weathering the storms of colonialism and the changing tides of Nigeria’s borders. Today, it stands as one of the ten wards of Yewa South, its people preserving their heritage while embracing progress. The town’s Obas (traditional rulers) still guide their people, and festivals like the Ogun and Egungun celebrations keep ancestral traditions alive. Though time has transformed its landscape, Oke-Odan’s heart remains unshaken—a hill of bravery, a home of history, and a symbol of unity for its descendants scattered across Europe, America, and beyond.

One of Oke-Odan’s most famous daughters was Princess Aina, born in 1843. Her life took a dramatic turn when Dahomey warriors raided her village, leaving her orphaned. Fate intervened when British Captain Frederick Forbes rescued her and presented her to Queen Victoria, who renamed her Sara Forbes Bonetta and raised her as her goddaughter. Sara’s story, from the heart of Oke-Odan to the palaces of England, remains a testament to the town’s enduring spirit.

and so, the story continues…

What memories will the next generation carry forward?

Would you like me to add more details on specific traditions or notable families?