A sunny day in the serene town of Ijebu, Ogun State, came alive on Sunday, June 8, 2025, as residents gathered for the annual extravaganza – the Ojude Oba festival. Among them was Oyinkansola, radiating elegance in her traditional attire, ready to celebrate with pride.
“I’m here to celebrate and represent the Kabiyesi himself. We’re having fun, enjoying the moment,”
she shared enthusiastically. For her and many others, this festival is not just an event; it’s a year-long preparation filled with anticipation and cultural significance.
The roots of Ojude Oba dig deep into history, originating as a Muslim homage ceremony to the traditional ruler of Ijebuland back in the 19th century when Islam began spreading across the region. Today, overseen by the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, it has evolved into a vibrant showcase of Yoruba culture through its diverse attires and traditions.
Despite interruptions due to the global pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the 2025 edition witnessed a grand gathering of participants from far and wide adorned in colorful local fabrics like Adire and Aso Oke. Adewale’s journey from the UK exemplifies the deep-rooted connection people feel towards their culture.
“I’m proud to be an Ijebu man… It’s one of the best things because you can’t stay away from your culture,”
expressed Adewale passionately about why he travels all this way annually for this celebration that unites generations.
Apart from being a cultural extravaganza, Ojude Oba also serves as an economic boon for locals. The influx of visitors fills hotels to capacity while traders line up along roads selling souvenirs and goods. Corporate entities seize this opportunity to market their products amidst the festive fervor.
The highlight of ‘Regbe Regbe,’ where different age groups pay homage to Ajuwale with colorful parades is a sight to behold. Each group meticulously dressed signifies unity and celebrates community spirit beyond just this event.
Security personnel work tirelessly at such large gatherings ensuring safety despite challenges controlling crowds bustling around pavilions where dignitaries like state governors grace festivities alongside cultural performances ranging from drummers’ beats to horse riding displays reminiscent of Durbar festivals up north.
Governor Dapo Abiodun praised how Ojude Oba acts as an
“engine for youth engagement”
fostering communal harmony while preserving heritage. He emphasized governmental support towards infrastructure development aiming at inclusivity across communities allowing cultural richness like this festival to thrive intergenerationally.
As attendees basked under sun-soaked skies fanning themselves or sipping water vendors’ offerings under sweltering heat yet buoyant spirits prevailed embodying unity in diversity showcased through vibrant colors adorning every celebrant – young or old – making each annual return more memorable than before.
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