The Ojude-Oba Festival, a highly anticipated annual celebration of Yoruba culture and tradition, took place yet again this year with unparalleled grandeur in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Executive Governor of Ogun State, H.E Dapo Abiodun at the Ojude- Oba Festival
The Ojude-Oba Festival, historically held on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, is when the Ijebu people pay homage to the Awujale, the paramount ruler of Ijebuland. This year, the festival began with a majestic parade, featuring age-grade groups, known as “Regberegbe” consisting of indigenes, their friends, and associates, all dressed in resplendent attires that reflected the royal heritage of the Ijebu kingdom. Each group showcased its unique theme, with elaborate costumes highlighting the Yoruba culture’s artistry and creativity.
Awujale of Ijebuland Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II GCON
Marked by a rich display of heritage, the 2024 edition held on Tuesday was an event to remember, bringing together indigenes, tourists, and dignitaries from around the globe. Below are pictorial highlights from the recently concluded festival.
Fashion and Style
Just like every other year, fashion played a significant role in this year’s Ojude-Oba festival. Attendees, dressed in their finest traditional attire, showcased the elegance and diversity of Yoruba fashion. Each family duly represented donned a coordinated outfit agreed upon by each group thereby, striving to outdo the other in style and presentation. Men and women appeared in different but uniform attires to their footwear. The array of fabrics, including lace, Ankara, and silk, combined with intricate gele headwraps and bead accessories, painted a picture of cultural pride and sophistication.
Different families represented by men and women of Fashion and elegance at Ojude-Oba Festival
Horse Riding Competitions
Another highlight of the festival is the horse riding competition. Each year, the riders, who are descendants of different Baloguns including Balogun Odunuga, Balogun Kuku, Balogun Agboola Alausa, Balogun Alatishe, Balogun Otubu, Balogun Adesoye, etc., demonstrated their equestrian skills and bravery, much to the delight of the crowd. Participants adorned their horses in vibrant, colourful fabrics, and the riders also wore intricately designed traditional outfits. The sight of these magnificent horses and their riders was a spectacle of elegance and pageantry. The best-dressed horse and rider competition was fierce, with winners receiving accolades and prizes from the Awujale.
Prince Adedoyin Alatishe, the grandson of Balogun Alatishe of Ijebuland
Cultural Performances and Music
Cultural dances and musical performances added rhythm and soul to the festival. Drummers and dancers captivated the audience with their energetic performances, bringing ancient Yoruba stories to life through dance and music. Traditional musicians played instruments like the talking drum, bata, and sekere, creating an atmosphere that was both festive and reverent.
Participants adorned their horses in vibrant, colourful fabrics, and the riders also wore intricately designed traditional outfits.
Culinary Delights
No celebration is complete without food, and the Ojude-Oba Festival was no exception. Vendors offered a variety of traditional dishes, including the popular Ijebu signature delicacies, “Ikokore”, “Ebiripo”, and “Ojojo”. The aroma of these mouth-watering dishes filled the air, inviting festival-goers to indulge in the rich culinary heritage of the Yoruba people.
Popular Ijebu signature water yam porridge “Ikokore”
Dignitaries and Special Guests
The festival attracted numerous dignitaries, including political leaders, business moguls, and international guests. Their presence underscored the significance of the Ojude-Oba Festival as a cultural landmark and a unifying event for the Ijebu people. Speeches and goodwill messages highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity among Nigerians.
Farooq Oreagba, M.D/C.E.O NG Clearing, West Africa’s premier central counterparty.
As always the 2024 Ojude-Oba festival was proudly sponsored by Globacom, Nigeria’s leading telecommunications. With a history of supporting cultural and sporting events, Globacom’s involvement underscored its dedication to celebrating Nigerian heritage. The company provided extensive media coverage, ensuring that the festival reached a global audience. Additionally, Globacom’s sponsorship included a series of promotional activities and contests, further engaging the community and attendees.
The festival not only showcased the best of Ijebu traditions but also strengthened the bonds of community and culture that make the Ojude-Oba Festival a truly remarkable event.
See more mind-blowing photos from the 2024 Ojude-Oba festival below:
Photos Credit: X | @PoojaMedia, @theniyifagbemi, @FotoNugget
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