History of Akure South Local Government
Akure South Local Government Area (LGA), located in the heart of Ondo State, Nigeria, serves as the administrative and economic hub of the state, with its headquarters in the vibrant city of Akure, the state capital. Established on February 3, 1976, as part of the creation of Ondo State from the former Western State, Akure South has grown into the most populous LGA in the state. According to the 2006 census, it had a population of 353,211, with current estimates suggesting significant growth due to its role as a center for commerce, education, and governance. The LGA covers an area of approximately 331 km² and is situated at coordinates 7°15'N, 5°10'E, nestled in the tropical rainforest zone with a warm climate conducive to agriculture.
The history of Akure South is deeply intertwined with the Akure Kingdom, one of the sixteen ancient Ekiti kingdoms in Yoruba land. Oral traditions trace the founding of Akure to Alakure, but the modern Akure Kingdom was established by Omoremilekun Asodeboyede, a descendant of Oduduwa, the revered Yoruba progenitor. Asodeboyede, a prince from Ile-Ife, founded the kingdom after passing a rigorous test set by Oduduwa, uniting various settlements such as Upalefa, Igan, Odopetu, and Ileru around 1150 AD. The name "Akure" is believed to derive from "Àkún rẹ," meaning "the beads have snapped," referencing an incident during land clearing by Omoloju, a local ruler, which became the basis for the settlement's name. The Akure Kingdom’s palace, built around 1150 AD, remains a significant cultural landmark, with a modern palace currently under construction south of the original site.
Akure South has evolved into a bustling urban center, driven by its strategic location at the intersection of major roads connecting Ondo, Ilesha, Ado-Ekiti, and Owo. It serves as a trade hub for agricultural products like cocoa, cassava, corn, bananas, and palm produce, with industries including electronics manufacturing and weaving. The LGA hosts prestigious institutions such as the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) and the Federal College of Agriculture, reinforcing its status as an educational powerhouse. Under the leadership of figures like Hon. Dr. Gbenga Timothy Fasua, the current Chairman, Akure South has seen advancements in infrastructure, flood mitigation, and community engagement, aligning with the state’s vision under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Key Features of Akure South
- Administrative Role: Houses the state capital, Akure, and the Ondo State Government House in Alagbaka.
- Cultural Heritage: Home to the Deji of Akure, the traditional ruler, and historic sites like the Oba’s Palace and Oja Oba market.
- Economic Hub: Major center for cocoa production, trade, and small-scale industries.
- Educational Excellence: Hosts FUTA, Federal College of Agriculture, and other institutions.
- Modern Governance: Recent initiatives include the 2025 Appropriation Bill of N8.67 billion, signed by Chairman Fasua, focusing on development.