By Adesakin Adefemi
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, have arrived at the Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode, joining thousands of guests for this year’s edition of the cultural celebration.
The festival, held on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, is drawing large crowds to Ijebu-Ode as different groups make colourful entrances in flowing agbadas, geles, and intricately beaded accessories. The atmosphere reflects a blend of tradition, pageantry, and communal pride.
Ojude Oba annually attracts politicians, celebrities, members of the Nigerian diaspora, and cultural enthusiasts who converge to celebrate Ijebu heritage and identity. The event is regarded as one of Ogun State’s most prominent cultural showcases.
This year’s edition holds special significance as it is the first since the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025. The late Awujale reigned for 65 years and was widely respected for his role in promoting Ijebu culture on national and international platforms.
Despite the absence of the late monarch, the festival has retained its grandeur, with participants displaying traditional attire and regalia that highlight the richness of Ijebu customs. Cultural groups have been seen performing in coordinated formations across the venue.
Organisers said the 2026 edition is aimed at preserving the legacy of the Awujale while continuing to promote unity and cultural expression among the Ijebu people. Security and crowd management measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of attendees.
The presence of Governor Abiodun and Seyi Tinubu has added to the festival’s profile, with many viewing their attendance as a show of support for cultural preservation and tourism development in Ogun State.
The Ojude Oba festival remains a major draw for visitors within and outside Nigeria, contributing to local commerce and projecting Ijebu traditions to a global audience. The event continues through the day with performances, tributes, and displays of horsemanship.
Community leaders have urged younger generations to sustain the festival’s traditions and values, stressing that Ojude Oba serves as both a cultural anchor and a platform for fostering social cohesion in Ijebuland.
