The organisers of the biennial Ojude-Oba festival have confirmed that the cultural celebration will take place this year despite the death of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. Speaking in Ijebu Ode ahead of the event, the coordinator of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival Organising Committee, Professor Fassy Yusuf, stated that the late monarch had explicitly instructed during his lifetime that the festival must never be halted due to his passing or any interregnum.
Late Monarch's Wish Upheld
According to Professor Yusuf, Oba Adetona regarded the festival as a sacred cultural institution that should continue to thrive for generations. “Indeed, our highly respected late Kabiyesi himself made it abundantly clear that Ojude Oba must never be suspended on account of his passage or during any interregnum,” Yusuf said. “According to his noble conviction, the festival remains a sacred cultural institution that must continue to flourish into eternity.” He added that the organising committee is proud and confident to announce that the 2026 festival will be held with all its grandeur and splendour.
Symbol of Heritage and Unity
Yusuf described the festival as a symbol of heritage, religious tolerance, pride, and the collective destiny of the Ijebu people. He noted that the late traditional ruler transformed and internationalised the Ojude Oba Festival into a globally recognised cultural brand. The festival has consistently united families, friends, visitors, sponsors, and the entire Ijebu nation over the years. Yusuf highlighted the colourful participation of various age-grade groups, known as Regberegbe, who appear in elaborate traditional attire during the celebration. He also mentioned the equestrian displays by descendants of ancient Ijebu warlords, whose forebears defended the Ijebu nation in pre-colonial times.
First Lady to Attend
Yusuf disclosed that the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the festival. He commended her commitment to national unity, cultural heritage, and national development. The Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Sesan Fagbayi, also spoke, describing the festival as a symbol of unity, resilience, and pride for the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State. Fagbayi said the 2026 festival will serve as a platform for transformation and development, with the state government leveraging it to drive tourism, economic growth, and cultural diplomacy.
Logo Unveiling
The organisers used the opportunity to unveil the 2026 logo of the Ojude Oba festival, which features the late Awujale's picture. The festival is expected to attract thousands of participants and spectators, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of Ijebu cultural identity.
