Oke Igbein, a name synonymous with the traditional seat of power in Abeokuta, holds a special place in the city’s history. The District Officer’s (DO) residence, situated in Oke Igbein, was once the epicenter of power, where the DO resided and oversaw the town’s affairs.
However, times have changed, and power has become decentralised, lacking a fixed location. This shift has led to a sense of disconnection from the past, with structures being referred to as “nomadic” – a term originally used to describe communities without fixed habitation.
As Fela Anikulapo once said, “This is how teachers teach nonsense.” The erosion of traditional values and the disregard for established institutions have created a sense of chaos. It’s as if time and leaders are teaching us to accept abnormalities as the new norm.
But amidst this chaos, one constant remains: the importance of respecting the office and officer. Power should reside in an officially designated location, commanding respect and dignity. Unfortunately, Oke Igbein and its surroundings have fallen into disrepair, treated with disrespect and disregard for the power and office it once represented.
Oke Igbein, once the proud Governor’s House, now stands as a testament to the erosion of traditional values and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Vacant power house!
