The Coordinator for the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival, Dr. Fassy Yusuff, has explained the absence of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, from this year’s edition of the annual celebration.
According to him, the 91-year-old monarch is recovering at home after being recently discharged from a hospital in Lagos.
Dr. Yusuff made this known on Monday while responding to concerns over the traditional ruler’s non-appearance at the festival, which was held on Sunday in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The event, which brings together thousands of people from Ijebuland and beyond, usually sees the monarch presiding and receiving homage from his subjects, visiting dignitaries, and tourists. His absence this year raised questions among attendees.
Visitors who gathered at the Awujale’s pavilion were surprised not to see the respected king, who has always played a central role in the Ojude Oba celebration. Many were looking forward to his appearance, but instead, his wife, Olori Kemi Adetona, represented him at the event.
In response to speculations and worries that followed the monarch’s absence, Dr. Yusuff noted that there was no cause for alarm. “Awujale was hospitalised in Lagos two weeks ago, but was discharged on Thursday. He is now recuperating at home. A normal situation. Nothing to worry about,” he stated in a message sent to a correspondent.
Dr. Yusuff, a former Commissioner for Information, urged the public to understand that the royal father’s health was improving steadily and that his recovery was progressing well. He assured everyone that the absence was simply due to health reasons and not connected to any serious issue.
Despite the king’s absence, the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival went ahead successfully, with colorful displays from different age groups (regberegbe), traditional dancers, and horse riders showcasing the rich culture of the Ijebu people. Dignitaries from across the country also attended, reaffirming the significance of the festival.
Oba Sikiru Adetona, who has ruled Ijebuland for over six decades, is widely respected for his leadership and for sustaining the tradition of the Ojude Oba festival, which has grown into an international cultural event.
