History Of Otan-Ile
At about 13th Century Prince Akindugba, one of the sons of Oduduwa left Ile-ife as other Princes did. He headed for Umayinyin (New Ijare) in Ondo State where he sojourned for a period. This was the third installation of Oodua of his Princes when each founded a kingdom outside ile-ife (See Ife Genesis of Yoruba Race by Dr. Fabumi p.30) his brother, Owa Ajibogun had settled earlier before him at Ibokun establishing Ijesa Kingdom. Ajibogun realizing the war prowess of his brother Akindugba, did not want him too far away from him.
On arrival of Otan-Ile. He Akindugba saw a footpath which he traced to Oloyo Stream on crossing to the side, he sawan old man Eleesu who wanted him to settle very near Him. Here he had been referred to as Baba Otan. He settled his two wives Otinhunmi and Olamoke and his children with Ajila. Ajila his host later realized Akiondugba’s royalty. When at night his velveteen throne sheet was spread, his beaded crown and staff (Opa Afole) were displayed. Ajila thereby shouted “Kabiyesi” as royal greetins. Ita Ajila is the seat of Oodoru (head of all masquerades) who normally gave the highest judgment especially capital punishment before colonial days and English laws became operative in Nigeria. The nes soon spread through the whole area and among all small settlement thereabout and they all recognized him Olotan as their Oba. Arigbolori’s house at Ajila is still accorded the honour of that first recognition and homage is still paid today whenever a new Olotan is installed.
There are many important Senior Chiefs in the Town like Obaala, Odofin Asao, Saloro, Risawe, Osunta, ejemu, Osolo, Lejoka, Saba, and a host of others. Among the women chief s also are Yeyesemure, Yeyerisa, Yeyedofin, Yeye Jumo and a host of others. Each came from various other towns in Yoruba land to settle with Olotan. Olotan of Otan –ile was father to Owa Otan Aiyegbaju formerly known as Otan Koto. Prince Olamodi who founded Otan – Aiyegbaju was the son of Oba Olotan Adegbola. Olotan of Otan-ile was also the father of Aragbiji, Oogbo his son was the First Aragbiji. There are Identical Chiefs, Streets and House – hold at Otan Aiyegbaju with those at Otan-ile, Otan Aiyegbaju being an offshoot of Otan ile
Otan –Ile took active part in Kiriji war and famous Warrior like Fakuyigbe, Lukotun, Ologun Odo, Oguntuyi and Agbeusi, Aipa Oge Era Lese were all from Otan – ile. The first Aafin (Palace) was at lmotin where Otinhunmi had her grave. The Latest and Present Aafin (Palace ) is now at the market place where we are celebrating on today. Places, of historical interest in the town include Ile Arigbolori, Olujoda, Ajila, Ile Odofin Ogboni, which are involved in the affairs of Olotan installation. Also places like Olua. Imotin (where and unfaithful new wife is dealth with traditionally. Igbo Igbale and Ile Orisa Inigbo. The traditional drums in town are Bata-Koto Gbedu (Royal Drum) I Agbe, Ipesi (Historical) drum that ushered in the first Olotan, Apiiri, Ibembe, Ugbin, Ilu Aje, Kenge.
The listed drums are used when most of the following festivals are observed.
