About IACOF
About Ijebu Aiyepe
A Community Rooted in Unity
Ijebu Aiyepe is one of the historic towns in Ijebuland, Ogun State, Nigeria. Nestled between Odogbolu and Ikenne, and just a short distance from Ijebu-Ode, the town is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, peaceful coexistence, and unique traditional leadership structure.
Unlike many Yoruba communities, Ijebu Aiyepe is governed by six traditional rulers, each representing one of the founding communities that came together to establish the town. This remarkable system of shared leadership reflects the spirit of unity and cooperation that continues to define the community today.
The Origin of Ijebu Aiyepe
The name “Aiyepe” originates from the Ijebu expression “Ṣoju Ayé ń Pé,” meaning “The whole world gathers here.”
The name symbolizes a place where people from different backgrounds unite with a shared purpose—a principle that remains central to the identity and values of the community.
The Founding Story
Around 1800, six independent settlements—Aba, Idobiri, Odolowu, Ilakan, Afo, and Odolubisanwa—made a historic decision to unite and establish one community.
Before then, these settlements were scattered across different locations within present-day Ogun State, often separated by distances of 10 to 15 kilometres.
Faced with frequent attacks, insecurity, and the devastating effects of the inter-tribal wars that affected Yorubaland during that period, the leaders recognized that unity offered the best chance for survival and prosperity.
Seeking divine guidance, the six rulers consulted the Ifá Oracle to determine the most suitable location for their new settlement. The Oracle selected Irapasogbesan, a parcel of land that originally belonged to the Odolowu community. However, before consulting the Oracle, the six rulers had already agreed that whichever land was chosen would belong equally to every community. That extraordinary agreement laid the foundation for one of the strongest examples of communal living in Ijebuland.
A Decision Guided by Tradition
A Symbol of Unity
When the new settlement was established, every founding community relocated to the chosen land. Rather than claiming ownership, they declared the town a shared inheritance belonging to all. The community was fortified with protective walls, and the six traditional rulers continued to govern together, creating a unique leadership model that has endured for generations. Today, that same spirit of unity continues to shape the identity of Ijebu Aiyepe and serves as the inspiration behind the work of the Ijebu Aiyepe Committee of Friends (IACOF).
About IACOF
Connecting Hearts. Building Community.
The Ijebu Aiyepe Committee of Friends (IACOF) is a non-profit, community-driven organization established to strengthen the bonds among sons, daughters, and friends of Ijebu Aiyepe, wherever they may be. Inspired by the town’s enduring legacy of unity and cooperation, IACOF brings together individuals who are passionate about preserving our heritage, supporting community development, and creating opportunities that improve the lives of present and future generations. Through friendship, collaboration, and service, we champion initiatives that promote education, youth empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable development across our community.
Our Purpose
Mission
To foster lasting friendships and champion initiatives that promote the social, economic, and cultural development of Ijebu Aiyepe.
Vision
To build a united, progressive, and prosperous Ijebu Aiyepe where friendship inspires sustainable development and every individual contributes to the growth of the community.
Core Values
Unity
Friendship
Integrity
Service
Collaboration
Cultural
Heritage
Accountability
Excellence