OKENE

town, Kogi state, south-central Nigeria. It lies at the intersection of roads from Lokoja, Kabba, Ikare, Ajaokuta, and Anchi. Originally founded on a hill near the present site, it now lies in the valley of the Ubo River, which is a minor tributary of the Niger River. The town is a major trade centre for the yams, cassava, corn (maize), sorghum, beans, peanuts (groundnuts), palm oil and kernels, and cotton grown in the surrounding area by the Igbira people. The town is also the site of the Igbira ata's (king's) palace. Cotton weaving is a traditional craft, and Okene women are known for their weaving of imported silk. Iron ore from deposits in the area is shipped to the iron and steel complex at Ajaokuta. The area around Okene is densely populated, primarily by Yoruba and Igbira peoples. Islam is the predominant religion. Pop. (1972 est.) 8,298.