The 2024 edition of the colorful Ojude Oba festival was held at Ijebuode local government area of Ogun State, Southwest, Nigeria on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.
The festival, held in the forecourt (the eponymous Ojude Oba) of the monarch, is an annual event celebrating the culture and traditions of the Ijebu people while paying homage to the King, Alaiyeluwa Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Adetona, Ogbagba II, Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
Held annually two days after Eid-El-Kabir, this celebration showcases the unity, heritage, and traditions of the Ijebu people. The theme for the 2024 edition, “OJUDE OBA: Unity and Harmony, Our Gifts”, underscores the festival’s emphasis on communal harmony and cultural pride.
It began over a century ago with converted Muslims visiting the Awujale of Ijebuland to express gratitude and pray for his well-being, as well as for the prosperity of Ijebuland and the nation.
The festival features the unique “Regbe regbe” parade, which organises society into age groups, showcasing development and tradition. Each group, including captains of industry and community leaders, displays the latest global fashions while paying homage to the king with vibrant drumming and dance.
This cultural extravaganza is a spectacle of unity and tradition, where various age groups gather to entertain and renew their allegiance to the monarch. Whether elderly groups like Mafowoku Akile Ijebu or younger groups like Egbe Arobajo, each brings visual delight and cultural significance to the festival. Groups like Gbobaniyi, adorned in rich Aso Oke add to the festival’s splendor with their regal appearance and dignified dance.
The festival also honors the Baloguns and Eleshins, descendants of Ijebu war heroes, who showcase their equestrian prowess and mock battles in a colorful display of martial music and jubilation. The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona (OFR), describes Ojude Oba as the Ijebus’ national day, celebrating its evolution into a world-class event that embodies uniqueness and greatness.
In addition to its cultural significance, Ojude Oba has transformed into a fashion parade where men and women flaunt exquisite lace fabrics, traditional Etu and Aso Oke attire, and modern fashion accessories.
This blend of ancient tradition and contemporary style turns the festival into a vibrant celebration of Ijebu culture, drawing both locals and visitors to partake in its social and cultural richness.
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