An individual who recently visited the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun State has voiced disappointment regarding its current state of disrepair, highlighting issues such as litter, erosion, and a lack of maintenance.
The concerned visitor has urged the Osun State Government to promptly address these issues and take necessary steps to preserve and protect the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls.
Sharing a video on Facebook, Prince Isaac Fayose expressed his dismay, stating, “Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls. What a shame. A state as resource-rich as Osun has chosen to neglect this natural treasure in favor of federal allocations.”
Within the video, a voice lamented, “I am deeply saddened by this situation. It is truly shameful to witness the blatant disregard for our heritage exhibited by visitors here.”
“Visitors are disrespecting our heritage by littering, defecating, and urinating on the site. Our heritage is being destroyed right in front of us while we stand by, accepting meager earnings. It is a disgrace.”
In response to public outcry regarding the current condition of the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, the Osun State Government has announced plans to renovate multiple tourist sites across the state, with a special focus on the popular waterfalls.
The government intends to spearhead the revitalization and management of the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, forming a collaborative committee involving state authorities, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the local community.
Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, revealed that these efforts are a direct response to a viral video highlighting the neglect suffered by the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls over several decades under previous administrations.
In addition to the waterfall renovation, the state’s tourism infrastructure upgrade initiative will encompass various cultural sites including the Osun Groove, Owala Inland Beach Resort in Olorunda Local Government Area, Sango Timi Shrine in Ede Local Government Area, and Ayunkunnugba Waterfalls in Oke-Ila Orangun, Ifedayo Local Government Area.
For those interested in watching the video, click on the link provided below.