Obale is a village at the South-East part of Ibaji Local Government Area in Kogi State. Said to be one of the communities founded by latter settlers/migrants into Ibaji land (the other communities being Afa, Ekanyi, Odeke and Echoño), it rests close to the boundary between Kogi State and Anambra State. It is partly enclosed by a river called Analo which flows from the North through the West and yields into the Maboro river to the South.

Obale is divided into six (6) clans, namely Oduja, Onoli, Obala, Agolukwu, Ohudene and Ajamale, each overseen by an ‘Okpala’ as clan head. Among the clans, headship is usually based on seniority by age. There are also titled leaders called ‘Achimere’ from all the clans, with traditionally stipulated functions in the society.

A king (Onu) rules over the community. Kingship is also rotational among the clans and based on seniority by age. The incumbent Onu of Obale is His Royal Highness Ajodo Ojadi Anobu.

Obale is largely an agrarian community like other Ibaji villages. The people specialize mainly in cultivating rice, cassava, maize and yam, as well as other crops. They also engage in fishing and hunting.

Obale is mainly known for two major religious affiliations – Christianity and Traditional religion respectively. At this point in our history, Obale (as do other villages in Ibaji) needs a re-igniting of the fire of Revival.

The Ibaji Liberation Crusade Train is headed next to Obale: March 2024!