Ojude oba is currently the most talked about festival in Nigeria. Its beautiful scenes and impressive cultural displays fascinate both young and old.
I remember being wowed by videos from previous years captured by content creator Niyi Fabemi. Those glimpses made me anticipate the 2025’s edition.
I know a lot of non-Ijebu ode indigenes who eagerly waited for this year’s edition. In case you’re also looking forward to next year’s edition of Ojude Oba, I’ll share everything you need to know about the festival and how to participate.
Where It All Began: The Story Behind Ojude Oba
Ojude Oba festival is an annual celebration hosted by the people of Ijebu. Ojude Oba festival is celebrated by those at home and abroad. It’s one of Nigeria’s cultural festivals that contributes to Ijebu Ode tourism.
Ojude Oba is usually observed on the third day after the Eid El-Kabir celebration. Its primary purpose is to pay homage to the Awujale of Ijebu. This festival didn’t just start today.
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Let’s go down memory lane into the roots of Ojude Oba. It originated from religious history. Earlier, in the 1800s, an enslaved person named Alli began practising Islam publicly, which gradually gained acceptance amongst the people of Ijebu. As a result, many began converting and building mosques for worshippers. Years later, some reverends introduced Christianity to certain Ijebu men with a proclamation to stick only to one wife out of the many they were previously married to. This made Chief Balogun Kuku refrain from Christianity and embrace Islam.
On the other hand, Islam embraced polygamy. It is interesting to know that the man had over 30 wives. His wealth, influence and the respect people had for him attracted more people to convert to Islam.
Before his conversion to Islam, Chief Balogun Kuku usually participated in Odeda, an annual event that brought together worshippers from various religions, such as Ogun, Sango, Osun, and Egungun. Unfortunately, he could no longer participate because it doesn’t align with Islamic values. He then created a new one to replace it called the Ita-Oba festival, which eventually metamorphosed into today’s globally recognised Ojude Oba.
The interesting thing is that, Ojude Oba now is no longer limited to its Muslim origin. People of other religions, Christians, traditional worshippers, and tourists look forward to and participate in the celebration.
Image Source: Niyi FagbemiÂ
The Magic of the Day: What Makes Ojude Oba Unique
The Regberegbe group parade and displays of the Horse riding families define the uniqueness of Ojude Oba. I love witnessing this parade of Regberegbe groups every year. The aura and steeze in the air are unmatched. There are always different cultural age grade groups with matching attires specific to their groups.
Their dress is adorned with exotic, locally crafted beads and luxury eyeglasses. The sight is mesmerising!
Another unique highlight of the festival is the artistic display by the Horse-riding families, especially the Baloguns. These families prepare to ride their horses and perform before the Awujale of Ijebu land as an act of homage to the king.
I remember Farooq Oreagba, who stole the show last year with his unique entry and health history. He was a cancer survivor; many youths and even adults couldn’t stop hailing and talking about how his steeze and composure were 100 percent.Â
The image below shows the image of the man who stole the show last year, Farooq Oreagba, a regular attendee at Ojude Oba.
Image Source: Niyi FagbemiÂ
This year, it’s a different ball game. Several horse riders left a lasting impression on me. Ladies, in particular, didn’t take it easy on us this year; they made a statement. They mounted and royally rode their horses. I remember the appearance of Princess Adesile; she had completely killed it.
The image below shows Princess Adesile in her regalia, a member of one of the royal families at Ojude Oba 2025.
Image Source: Princess Adesile Instagram
Final Thoughts
Ojude Oba is undoubtedly an event I never wish to miss. It helps to greatly ease my mental stress. Witnessing the beautiful display of Yoruba culture gives me so much joy. The festival bridges the gap between economic groups, as everyone sets aside their titles and societal grades to blend with others for a joyous celebration.
Add Ojude Oba to the list If you’re a tourist who would love to witness traditional Nigerian celebrations. I can guarantee that the experience is worthwhile.
Will you be attending Ojude Oba next year? Let me know in the comments.
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