Isara
Isara Remo
Isara-Remo (also known as Isara or Ishara) is an ancient Yoruba town and the administrative headquarters of Remo North Local Government Area (LGA) in Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. It forms part of the broader Remo region, a subgroup of the Yoruba people.
Situated on hilly, ridged terrain that provides natural drainage and historically offered defensive advantages. It borders areas like Ipara-Remo and lies near major routes, with Abeokuta roughly 35 minutes away by road and easy access to Lagos and Ibadan.
Remo North LGA covers approximately 199 km² (about 198–199 km²).
Population of 59,911 according to the 2006 Nigerian census (LGA figure). Older projections (e.g., 1963) were around 98,000, and current estimates are higher due to growth. Isara itself is described as one of Ogun State’s larger towns (6th after places like Abeokuta and Sagamu).
Predominantly Remo Yoruba, speaking the Remo dialect of Yoruba. The population is mainly farmers and small-scale traders, with a mix of Christian, Muslim, and traditional religious adherents.
Isara-Remo was founded around the early 15th century (c. 1406–1471) byPrince AdeyemoPrince Adeyemo (also called Ade Omo, Ode-Omo, or Ode Omo-Ooni), a hunter and prince from the Iremo Quarters of Ile-Ife. He migrated northward, settled initially at sites like Okerekere or Ereko Isara due to the area’s suitability for hunting and defense, and attracted followers.
Two key companions, Two key companions,IseWhereas and andAraWe buy (notable warriors/advisers), played major roles; the name “Isara” is often derived from “Ise-Ara.” The founder received the title (notable warriors/advisers), played major roles; the name “Isara” is often derived from “Ise-Ara.” The founder received the titleOde-OmoOde-Omo (linked to his hunting prowess, including aiding Ijebu-Ode against an elephant) and became the first Odemo of Isara. The town has a fortified history (“Afotamodi Kogun ma wolu” — a rocky stronghold hard for enemies to penetrate) and shares traditions with neighboring Remo towns.
Remo North LGA was created in 1996 from the former Ikenne LGA during the Abacha administration.
Isara-Remo is deeply rooted in Yoruba culture with strong oral histories, folktales, and festivals. It maintains traditional institutions.
Odemo of IsaraOdemo of Isara and aligns with the broader Remo Kingdom (paramount ruler: Akarigbo of Remo, based in Sagamu). Key elements include shrines (e.g., Iledi Egungun, Ugbo Oro), homage practices to ancestral sites like Okerekere, and cultural events tied to agriculture and heritage. The community values farming pride and communal identity within Remoland.
The area is known as part of the “food-basket” of the Remo zone, with fertile fields supporting agriculture (staples and cash crops). Residents are predominantly farmers.
Mineral resources include:
- High-quality clay
- Muscovite
- Granite
- Quarry materials (stone)
- Sand
Isara-Remo represents a classic example of a traditional Yoruba agrarian town blending historical depth, cultural richness, and natural resource potential with modern local governance challenges.
Isara Remo the Sixth largest town in Ogun State
