by Alao Abiodun
After going into oblivion due to some inevitable circumstances for a period of aeon as regards my tour, I got series of messages to explore further, I’m indeed enjoying the unassuming role as a budding photojournalist, I hope to get a camera soon, ending the month of July on a high note was indeed a very interesting, memorable, not-too-hurry-to-forget and remarkable one. I had to embark on this sightseeing with a couple of friends considering the inability to be a lone ranger in this kind of journey. The journey was indeed a pleasant one but quite intriguing, I had to embark on a strenuous exercise climbing hilly areas just to get and discover the source of the mystical waterfall, trust me it was breathtaking. Incase you intend to tour the adventurous Erin Ìjẹ̀ṣà waterfall, it’s advisable to enjoy the water splash at the lower ground because if you think you can get to the top of the waterfall then trust me you’ll spend the whole day trekking like a lost wanderer, climbing up the waterfalls is quite intimidating and arduous, as there are no steps constructed or clear paths made up the ridge slopes, except depressions and projections on the surface, as well as roots and branches of huge trees, forest climbers and shrubs along the paths, which serves as hand and foot holds for the adventurous tourist.
The waterfalls is a whole new exciting and awe inspiring experience with nature. Each step of the waterfall has a flowing fountain that marks the mystical nature of the place. The waterfall is a stunning assemblage of seven unique levels, with each level providing a whole new outlook when compared to the previous level. The water fall exudes a therapeutic ambience which only something natural can produce. It is also a settlement for the ancient inhabitants for a number of years. The cascading waterfall amidst the soaring mountains, gives a blend of wildlife with tranquility. Nevertheless, the ascent of the enormous ridge is most rewarding, as one is treated to dazzling and panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, depicting the true natural beauty of the Nigerian landmass. Another great attraction at the waterfalls, is the Abake village, a rustic enclave located at the top of the colossal ridge. The name “Abake”, is a Yoruba word which is a combination of two other Yoruba words: “Aba” “Oke”, meaning “the village on the top”, suggesting the location , of the small village. The village is said to be in Effon Alaaye local government, hence the villagers refer to their settlement as Effon Alaaye (Ekiti State). The village basically consists of mud houses and the main occupations are farming.
Apart from the water from the rocks, I wasn’t too impressed with the environment. Serious work still needs to be done there. The wall paintings are faded and the steps used to ascend the rock is uncompleted. Sometimes in June 2015, The Osun State Government took the the bull by the horn to develop the tourism sector through the endorsement of a Memorandum of Understanding with a private investor to take charge of the Olumirin Waterfalls, in Erin-Ijesha, Osun State, well the rest of the story is history.
To be candid, I think the place needs more publicity and maybe capital investments. Imagine some sort of lush garden with variants of colourful flowers around the falls and with areas to picnic. Great lighting at night and maybe small cottages developed to taste to give a wonderful family or romantic getaway. The sound of the falls at night would be pleasant. Basic thing is, it could earn the state lots of revenue far greater than what they may be obtaining presently.
Àlàó Àbiódun Jóshua writes from University of Ìbàdàn, Oyo State. He’s a campus Journalist, writer and a budding photojournalist
