The Mystery and Wonder of Ebomi Lake (Ipesi Akoko)

I arrived at Ebomi Lake with a sense of excitement and curiosity, ready to explore this hidden gem in Ondo State. But my excitement quickly turned into unease when I was told, "You can't go to the lake alone." Those words sent a shiver down my spine. Why not? What could possibly happen? My mind raced with possibilities, but I had no choice but to follow the local tradition and take a guide.

As we made our way toward the lake, I learned of the stories that have been passed down for generations. One of the most fascinating legends came from the daughter of a community elder. She told me that, in ancient times, when wars threatened the village, invisible soldiers would rise from the lake to defend the people. It sounded like something out of a mythical epic, yet the conviction in her voice made it feel real.

Another tale spoke of the lake's mystical justice—if anyone stole from the community, the water itself would seek them out, filling their home until they confessed. It wasn’t just a lake; it was a protector, a force that watched over the people.

Beyond the supernatural, Ebomi Lake is said to be a source of healing, agricultural benefits, and safety for the village. The locals believe its waters have special powers that have helped the community thrive for centuries.

One of the children of the community’s high chief expressed frustration over the lack of government support in developing the area. He mentioned that a house was built at the lake in the early 1970s, but since then, no significant effort had been made to attract more tourists. He urged the government to step in and also called on the sons and daughters of the land in the diaspora to contribute to the community’s growth.

Navigating to Ebomi Lake wasn’t easy. There were no signboards to guide visitors, and the road was a mix of motorable paths and stretches that required trekking. Adding to the challenge, there was no hotel in the town, so I had to lodge in a nearby town called Ifira Akoko. Upon arriving at Ipesi Akoko, where the lake is located, I was honored with an invitation to meet the high chief of the community. I was warmly welcomed and seated among the high chief’s children as they shared stories and mysteries of the lake.

They also revealed that the community holds a festival every year on December 27th, during which people from far and near gather to celebrate with the locals.

From the right:- The Community Head, The Daughter, Brother

I had the rare opportunity to converse with the high chief and his family. The high chief spoke of the lake’s power and its significance. He shared that, according to the lake itself,

only the ocean is greater than it, and no other body of water possesses its unique power. He further explained that the lake declared it would settle in a small town, but the whole world would eventually know of its existence.

Interestingly, Ebomi Lake is situated between the old Bendel State (now Delta and Edo States) and Akoko in Ondo State, making it a location rich with history and cultural significance.

The high chief also recounted an astonishing story: Some women once approached the lake and requested larger breasts. The water granted their wish, but they made the mistake of taking some of the lake’s water home in a bottle. As a result, their houses began to fill with water until they returned it, as no one is allowed to take the water away.

He further explained that the community makes offerings and rituals to the lake using a big ram and a completely white cockerel. Additionally, if anyone makes a promise at the lake, they must seek the high chief to ensure they fulfill their obligations properly.

And then, I saw the lake.

The water was crystal clear and incredibly still—almost unnaturally so. What struck me the most was something I hadn’t noticed before: despite being surrounded by trees and thick vegetation, not a single leaf floated on the water. 

It was as if the lake rejected anything that did not belong. I stood there, taking it all in, feeling the weight of the stories I had just heard settle over me.

Was Ebomi Lake truly enchanted? Perhaps. But one thing was certain, it held an aura of mystery and wonder that I wouldn’t soon forget.

Ebomi Lake is more than just a body of water. It is a sacred place, rich in history, mystery, and culture. From the stories of invisible warriors to the powerful declarations of the lake itself, this place holds secrets that have been passed down for generations.

But despite its uniqueness, Ebomi Lake remains largely undeveloped. There are no proper roads, no hotels, and very little awareness about this hidden gem. The last major government effort here was back in the 1970s. Since then, nothing significant has been done to promote or preserve this historic site.

The people of this community need support. Tourism could bring opportunities, growth, and recognition to this place, but it all starts with awareness. That’s why I’m calling on the government, travel enthusiasts, investors, and the sons and daughters of this land, both at home and in the diaspora-to step in and help develop Ebomi Lake into a world-class attraction.

If you’re watching this, I encourage you to come visit, experience the mystery for yourself, and help spread the word. Share this video, drop a comment on what you think about Ebomi Lake, and if you haven’t yet, subscribe to AdvenJungle for more incredible adventures!

Let’s keep exploring, let’s keep preserving our heritage, and let’s put places like Ebomi Lake on the map!

Until next time, keep the adventure alive!