THE IYAKE LAKE

Ado Awaye is relatively a bubbling small town surrounded by hills and lush vegetation in Iseyin local government area of Oyo State. It houses one of the only two suspended lakes in the world after the Hanging Lake in Colorado, USA. The Iyake Lake settles at the top of a mountain called Ado Awaye. This lake never dries even in dry seasons, and the water level remains the same in raining seasons. Besides the lake, the mountain has other wonders that make it a fascinating destination and significant cultural heritage.

The Iyake Lake was discovered around 1500AD by the Dihormy refugees who are now head of the kingmakers for Alado of Ado Awaye chieftaincy. The Oba says there are myths surrounding the Iyake Suspended Lake and Ado Awaye Mountain: “One of the myths is that Iyake Lake was a barren woman who turned into water. It is also believed that when you have spiritual problems and consult the lake it provides solutions.”

According to the tour guide, the lake is bottomless and no one is allowed to swim or go into it. The Ado Awaye Mountain serves as a heritage and center of unity for all and sundry. The people celebrate Oodua festival at the site on a yearly basis.

credits: Petra Udeh/ToluRock