The Ojude Oba Festival came alive again this year in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, as the annual cultural event drew crowds from across Nigeria and beyond. Held on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, the celebration serves as a gathering for the Ijebu people to honour their monarch, the Awujale of Ijebuland, in grand fashion.
Dating back to the 19th century, the festival began as a simple Muslim gathering to pay respect to the king. Over time, it evolved into one of the country’s most cherished cultural events, bringing together religion, fashion, music, dance, and tradition in a stunning display of Yoruba identity.
This year, the grounds surrounding the Awujale Pavilion were packed with people dressed in vibrant native clothing like Aso Oke, Adire, Agbada, and Iro and Buba.
The different age-grade groups known as Regbe Regbe made their traditional entrance, dancing, praying, and offering gifts to the monarch. Each group — including Gbobaniyi, Gbobalaye, Bobagbimo, and Obafuwaji — tried to outshine the other in what has become a healthy cultural contest, often attracting sponsorship rewards.
A major highlight of the festival was the colourful horse-riding displays by members of prominent warrior families known as the Baloguns. Groups such as Balogun Kuku, Balogun Alausa, Balogun Adenuga, Balogun Adesoye, and Balogun Alatise rode in proudly, each one clad in luxurious fabrics and royal colours. The horses themselves were also well-decorated, adding to the grandeur.
The festival is more than just a cultural display. It brings significant economic activity to Ijebu Ode. Hotels, guesthouses, and shops saw a spike in visitors, while street vendors and local artisans made brisk business. Many corporate brands also joined in, sponsoring parts of the celebration and placing advertisements around the town to boost visibility.
Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as the “King of Steeze,” once again drew attention with his bold style, becoming a fan-favourite among festivalgoers and social media users. His outfit became one of the most photographed looks of the day.
While the festival was put on hold during the 2020 and 2021 COVID-19 pandemic, it has since bounced back stronger. Organisers and attendees noted that this year’s edition not only upheld tradition but also attracted newer, younger audiences.
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