ÌBÀRÀPÁ, MY HOME.
As the saying goes; every river has its source, and I pray may our source never gets dry/spoil. The unconditional love I have for my region wouldn't let me pass the dice without doing justice or mentioning the core traits my place possesses. From being a small place to geographically and internationally creating a spot for herself on the global map is highly enthralling, and encouraging.
The name "Ibarapa" is derived from a local cultivar of the melon plant, known locally as "Egusi Ibara", which was historically acknowledged by neighboring people such as the Egbas, Ibadans and Oyos to be extensively cultivated in the area.
To start with, my zone is the less privileged region in Oyo State, amongst the five zone in the state., and I'm not sorry to say this. The last time we enjoyed a 10hours light was in the late 2000s. The reason that brewed negligence of the region is still a mystery none of us can fathom, or put into a close look, and figure the reason. Even the not-so-better places in the State are placed on a 24/7 electricity. Yet, they run down to this region when election time is near for campaigning. Why? What's Ibarapa done?!
Infrastructure seems like a big project to us whenever the course of having one comes, we seems to forget this is our fundamental right, and shower the facilitator of the so-called project with praises.. Lol. The last time we received a project from the State isn't even remembered. An unusual, and strange one. Hence, the accustomed acts has made us stand for ourselves, and fight our battle alone in the face of adversity.
The killing at Igangan, the northern part of my zone made me realized our worth in the hands of the government. Little to no attention was given, and the state of perplexity on the face of the populace evoked a dawn of independence - limitless possibilities on us. The battle were fought singlehandedly by the sons of the soil. To all the lost heroes, may your soul rest in peace. They all fought for the land.
Politically, we were also deflected, and placed on less standard posts. The allocation of top posts to my zone seems to be a political abomination in the state. Whereas we are politically gifted with great individuals...but the medium to do that isn't given. But fortunately, we are already changing the narrative. Industrially, there's no working industry in my region. How could that be?
Yet, the dilapidated state of the zone doesn't affect us or make us a less educated region. Academically, I'm proud of my zone. It's highly safe to say the future is bright. The rate at which the inhabitants of my regions studies is a 5unit course that must be introduced into the courses of each and every students in tertiary institutions.
It’s really a proud moment for me seeing them breaking protocols in their respective institutions, finishing wonderfully, and graduating as the best or second best. Despite the unavailability of light to read through the night during their early education days, they still effortlessly believe in their dreams, and work towards making it a reality. My zone is endowed with intellects, scholars, geniuses that’s raised the bars high, and won several international scholarships...which it’s not even far fetched - I have friends too, representing well.
About religion also, it's a very big honour and privilege to say we have highly revered Islamic Scholars that knows the in-depth of Islam, the pros and cons. Erudite pastors that really understood the doctrine. My zone is unarguably the most peaceful zone in the state. If my zone were to be a state, I'd give it the state of "the endless horizons".
The working ability of my people is very high. We are not lazy nor are we greedy. The farming sector of my zone is a 100/100. They are toiling really hard towards making the region a better place. We farm alot. Trading too is our major occupation. We are business oriented, and experienced in dealing with people within the business arena.
Another unique traits we possess is that we are the bearer of the town with the highest number of twins in the whole world - that's a big achievement. We own the heritage. Though, it's been traced to our "Ìlasa soup, water, and yam"; I guess. In each and every household, there's a very high chance you see twins, even multiple twins. It's a big gift bestowed upon us by Almighty. Incase you want twins, or triplets, come and marry from Igboora.
My region is really a centre of attraction for tourists. We are greatly blessed with mountains, and they are beautifully made. The sight of some can actually give you a beautiful day. Big, mighty, and will give an awesome view from the top. Interestingly, some hills usually have a day set aside for their celebration - Idere Hills. Imofin Hills.
Our tone of language is too sweet to hear. The ones that always makes me flutter is Ayete, Tapa, and Igangan’s own. They fully embody the region. Their uncommon traits of communicating seamlessly in that tone is commendable. Plus, we are really accommodating, and interesting to live with. We are truly pacesetter.
As a guy, this might excite you. My region is filled with beautiful, intelligent, decent and religious young girls. The girls that'd better represent your dream girl. Same thing goes for the other gender as well - handsome, intelligent, hardworking, loving, and religious lads. I don't need to stretch further, by now you should understand, and if no, forget about it.
Ibarapa is really a beautiful place to be, and I'm proud to be a son of the soil.. The land is a home of opportunity. And I hope we do breed some sort of relationship after this. Thank you.
Ìbàràpá ò ni bàjé. We are all one - Òòkan náà ni wá.
© Babátúndé Olábòdé (GMNSE).
The Ìbàràpá Boy!
