The 1952 census of Nigeria defined an urban centre as a place with at least 5,000 people. On this basis the census distinguished 136 urban centres including Ijebu Ode in western Nigeria. This paper examines Ijebu Ode from the viewpoint of its growth pattern based on topographical, archaeological, and toponymical sources, as well as historical references and oral traditions indicating the origin and the growth of the town. The archaeological remains at Ijebu Ode include: the archaeological mound, the town wall or moat, remains of the old palace, residential houses, cemeteries, traditional shrines, churches, the prayer ground and mosques. Results of the study of the above-mentioned sources suggest that Ijebu Ode existed in the 15th/16th century AD. The fact that a settlement was in existence here much earlier as well, can be assumed from the presence of a polished stone tool in the surface finds. The settlement developed between the two rivers Owo and Yemula. The topographical and toponymical study suggests that the area was full of natural resources. With the intrusion of foreigners in 1882, Ijebu Ode rapidly developed into an urban centre. In conclusion, the town’s more recent urban development is briefly examined. Bibliogr.
