The founding fathers of Igarra migrated from Idah in present day Kogi State under the leadership of Ariwo Ovejijo who was a prince in Idah and who left Idah with his supporters because he felt cheated of his right to ascend the throne of the Attah of Igalla many centuries ago. He and his followers, made up of all the present families in Igarra, founded Igarra and he became the first ruler who ruled over his followers in the new kingdom under the title of “Otaru Ariwo Ovejijo Oshinoyi Etuno” meaning “Otaru Ariwo Ovejijo, King of Igarra people,” which, up till today, is still the traditional eulogy or appellation for the Otaru of Igarra.
Apart from the fact that the oracle favoured the settlement at the present site called Igarra, other factors that contributed to their final decision to settle here, include the following:
- Cool refreshing spring water from the hills such as the Ivokoto, Ifege, Idiko and Usege springs. Even after the construction of pipe-borne waters, some people in Igarra still preferred the cool spring water from Ivokoto and Ifege.
- Hills offering protection against external aggression. Igarra is almost totally surrounded by hills.
- Fertile agricultural soil for crops like Yam, Cassava, and Palm produce. “UNO” mean palm produce in Igala language). Igarra possibly derived its name from this abundant palm produce which they met on their arrival on the land.
- Flourishing trade in beads with the aborigine – Anafuas.