Culture

Ojude Oba 2025 Showcases Yoruba Pride and Culture in Ijebu Ode

Published

5 months ago

June 8, 2025

By Adenike Lawal

The ancient town of Ijebu Ode in Ogun State was transformed into a vibrant hub of tradition and elegance as it hosted the 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration that continues to serve as a proud expression of Yoruba heritage and unity.

The festival, deeply rooted in history, has grown into a national cultural treasure admired within and beyond Nigeria.

Held annually on the third day after the Islamic Eid-el-Kabir, Ojude Oba meaning “The King’s Courtyard” began in the 19th century as a simple gesture of homage by early Muslim converts to the Awujale of Ijebuland. Over time, it has evolved into a grand display of Yoruba identity and communal pride.

Central to the event is the enduring leadership of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, under whose reign the festival has blossomed.

The Awujale Pavilion served as the focal point for processions featuring traditional fashion, music, dance, and horse-riding performances that reflect the beauty of Yoruba culture.

This year’s celebration was a dazzling showcase of color and craftsmanship. Attendees from across the country arrived in traditional attire including Adire, Aso Oke, Agbada, Iro, and Buba, each piece reflecting Yoruba artistry and heritage.

Horseback processions brought regal energy as riders representing noble Balogun families such as Adenuga, Alausa, Kuku, Alatise, and Adesoye paraded with elegance and pride.

Age-grade groups known as Regbe Regbe societies presented synchronized performances in dance, chants, and tributes to the king, creating a festive competition for prestige and prizes. Groups like Gbobaniyi, Gbobalaye, Bobagbimo, and Obafuwali drew loud cheers with their coordinated flair.

Farooq Oreagba, popularly called the “King of Steeze,” captured public attention with his stylish presence and confident bearing, reaffirming his place as a modern cultural figure.

Beyond its cultural essence, the festival also delivered economic benefits. Hotels and guesthouses were fully booked, underscoring the festival’s role as a driver of tourism.

Corporate sponsors took advantage of the visibility, with branded activations and banners adding to the festive atmosphere.

To ensure a safe experience, security personnel were fully deployed, providing a peaceful environment for all attendees.

After a pause during the 2020 and 2021 pandemic years, Ojude Oba has fully regained its momentum.

As the 2025 edition wraps up, participants look forward to future celebrations that will continue to uphold the rich traditions, pride, and identity of the Yoruba people.

Culture

Ex-ICAN President Emerges as New Fusengbuwa Ruling House Head

Published

2 months ago

September 1, 2025

By Huldah Shado

Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, has been appointed as the new head of the Fusengbuwa ruling house in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The development comes after the resignation of Dr. Kunle Hassan, founder of the Eye Foundation Hospital, who stepped down as the family head.

The change of leadership was announced during a special Fusengbuwa Ruling House Unification and Integration Meeting held at Oba Adesimbo Tunwase Court, Agunsebi, Ijebu-Ode. Hassan’s resignation was attributed to “current developments and dynamics” following the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who reigned for 65 years before his death on July 13 at the age of 91.

Hassan, who also chairs the Governing Board of Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, thanked those who supported him during his tenure as the head of the ruling house. He urged family members to unite behind Owoyemi, saying, “This is the appointed time for Otunba Owoyemi. He has been in it for over 40 years, but when it is the right time, the good Lord blesses it, and that is what we witnessed today.”

In his acceptance speech, Owoyemi promised to lead the ruling house with fairness and integrity. “I have been a very senior member of the Fusengbuwa ruling house for over 44 years, including about 10 years in leadership roles. I am conversant with the challenges, but with God and the people on my side, they are not insurmountable,” he said.

Culture

Lagos Police Restrict Egungun Festival to Designated Venues Amid Rising Clashes

Published

2 months ago

August 31, 2025

By Sarah Sam Adda

The Lagos State Police Command has directed that all activities of the annual Egungun Masquerade Festival be restricted strictly to designated outing points and approved celebration venues.

The move follows escalating clashes among rival masquerade groups and reports of violence and property damage in parts of the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the directive prohibits public processions and street marches.

He explained that the restriction aims to protect lives and property while ensuring residents of other faiths are not subjected to harassment during the festivities.

Hundeyin stressed that the decision was taken to forestall further breaches of public peace, noting that rivalries between Egungun groups had intensified in recent days.

He warned that individuals or groups who defy the order or engage in activities that threaten security would face the full weight of the law.

Culture

Isese Day: Ifa Council Urges Tinubu to Declare National Holiday

Published

3 months ago

August 20, 2025

By Onilede Titi Faith

The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to declare August 20 as a national public holiday in honour of Isese Day.

ICIR President, Fayemi Fakayode, made the call in Ibadan on Wednesday during the 2025 Isese Day celebration.

While states including Oyo, Lagos, Ogun, and Osun already recognise the day, Fakayode urged governors of Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta to follow suit.

He said national recognition would end what he described as “inequality among the three major religions” in Nigeria.

The council also asked the government to fund cultural festivals, protect shrines and sacred lands, and integrate traditional religion adherents into cultural councils.

Fakayode commended South-West governors for supporting the celebration, stressing that Isese embodies morality, unity, reverence for nature, and communal living.