Video: Cultural extravaganza: Ojude Oba festival sets Ijebu-Ode ablaze with splendour
Abdullateef Fowewe
The historic town of Ijebu Ode was alive with vibrant energy and cultural pride as the annual Ojude Oba Festival unfolded in a spectacular display of tradition, grandeur, and community spirit.
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Drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across Nigeria and beyond, the festival once again showcased the rich heritage of the Yoruba people in a dazzling celebration that blended age-old customs with contemporary flair.
The Ojude Oba Festival, held every year to honour the Awujale (traditional ruler) of Ijebu land, featured colourful parades, traditional music and dance performances, and elaborate attire that reflected the deep cultural roots of the region.
The event also served as a platform for unity, bringing together different age groups and social strata to celebrate their shared identity.
Highlights of the festival included the impressive display of horse-riding regiments, known as the “Egbere,” and the procession of various age-grade groups, each presenting unique costumes and performances that captivated the audience.
The festival’s grandeur was further amplified by the presence of dignitaries, cultural icons, and tourists, all eager to partake in the joyous occasion.
Organisers emphasised that the Ojude Oba Festival remains a vital cultural touchstone that not only preserves Yoruba traditions but also promotes tourism and economic growth in Ijebu Ode. As the festivities drew to a close, attendees left with renewed pride in their heritage and anticipation for next year’s celebration.
The Ojude Oba Festival continues to be a shining example of Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry, illuminating Ijebu Ode with splendour and unity each year
