By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The lyake Lake, located at Ado Awaye in Iseyin local government area of Oyo State is known to be the only suspended lake in Africa and the second in the world after the Hanging Lake in Colorado, USA.
A suspended lake is a body of stagnant water on the mountains and lyake Lake has been named as one of the fascinating sites to visit in Nigeria as well as one of the seven wonders of Nigeria.
In March 2022, the House of Representatives urged the Federal Government on the need to revamp the Iyake Suspended Lake at Ado-Awaye in Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon Shina Peller, who observed that “tourism is a strong pillar of growth for the Nigerian economy with a contribution of 3.20 per cent to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing 2.70 per cent of total employment in 2013, and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), it is envisaged to rise by 6.1 per cent per annum from 2014 to 2024.
Related Posts
“The House also notes that in 2014, the World Travel and Tourism Council recommended adequate security, increase investment in infrastructure and tourist centres to boost tourism activities in the country.
“The House is concerned that the Iyake suspended Lake in Ado-Awaye, a very rare natural occurrence that has the potential of attracting tourists all over the world annually has been abandoned,” he noted.
To this end, the House mandated the joint Committees on Appropriations and Culture & Tourism to ensure compliance.
NatureNews.Africa in this report, gathered 5 wonders of the lake.
1. 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.
2. It is said to be bottomless and have swallowed those who have tried to measure its depth. Till today, whoever enters the lake never comes out of it. It is said to be the main god of fertility of the Mountain.
3. The Iyake Lake was said to be discovered around 1500AD by the Dihormy refugees who are now head of the kingmakers for Alado of Ado Awaye chieftaincy.
4. One of the myths about the lake 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.
5. 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.
