Ilaro town was established in the 18th century by a warrior and hunter named Aro. He left Oyo town and settled on a small hill called Igbo Aje, located at the center of Ilaro. From this hill, Aro and his warriors could spot enemies—mainly slave traders from Dahomey (now Benin Republic) before they launched attacks.
Aro was known as a fearless warrior and a skilled hunter. The town got its name from “Ilu Aro,” meaning Aro’s settlement, which was later shortened to Ilaro for easier pronunciation. The early people of Ilaro were skilled farmers, hunters, and fighters who defended their land bravely.
The Oronna Festival: Celebrating a Hero
The Oronna Festival is an important cultural event held every year in Ilaro. It is celebrated to honor the town’s traditions and pay tribute to Oronna, a great warrior who helped protect Ilaro from invaders, especially the Dahomean army.
Oronna was a brave and selfless leader who fought many battles to defend his people. According to history, he mysteriously disappeared into the ground with his leopard at a special location, which is now called the Oronna Shrine. This shrine has been preserved as a tourist attraction and historical site. It is also where the traditional ruler of Ilaro is crowned.
The Oronna Ilaro Festival
Every November, the Oronna Festival is held to honor the legacy of Oronna. The week-long event attracts visitors from different places and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ilaro.
Highlights of the Festival
The Oronna Festival features exciting events, including:
- Street Carnival – A lively parade with music, dance, and cultural performances.
- Tourism Activities – Visits to historical sites like the Oronna Shrine.
- Cultural Beauty Pageant – A contest celebrating traditional beauty and fashion.
- Masquerade Displays & Festival Dances – Traditional performances that showcase Ilaro’s heritage.
- Talent Hunt – A platform for young people to showcase their skills.
- Medical Check-ups – Free health services for the community.
The Oronna Festival is not just a celebration—it helps preserve Ilaro’s rich history and attracts tourists, making it a key cultural event in Nigeria.