Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun at the Ojude Oba. Photo: X | Dapo Abiodun
In a mood of celebration of heritage, culture and royalty, prominent Nigerians including Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; and Seyi, son of President Bola Tinubu, joined sons and daughters of Ijebuland for the 2026 edition of the Ojude Oba festival on Friday, May 29, 2026.
The annual festival, which is held shortly after the Muslim Eid al-Kabir celebration, once again transformed the streets of Ijebu-Ode into a colourful tapestry of tradition, pomp, and pageantry.
Ojude Oba, which literally translates as “the front of the King’s palace,” dates back over a century. Historically, the festival began as a way for the Ijebu people to pay homage to the Awujale, the paramount ruler of Ijebuland, after the Eid celebration. What started as a simple gathering of gratitude and loyalty has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural festivals, showcasing the unity, fashion, and resilience of the Ijebu people both at home and in the Diaspora.
This year’s edition was no different, as attendees arrived in breathtaking style. Many rode on beautiful horses, their riders adorned in rich traditional fabrics, exuding elegance and cultural pride as they made their way to the palace.
Socio-cultural groups and age grades moved in coordinated formations, each group resplendent in matching attire that told stories of identity and belonging.
One of the most striking female groups, Egbe Tobalase Obinrin Akile Ijebu, dazzled in a beautiful combination of yellow and blue aso oke, complemented with orange hand fans and red beads.
One of the male groups, Egbe Bobasete Akile Ijebu, commanded attention in vibrant red traditional outfits, tastefully accessorised with cream and gold elements that gave them a regal presence as they marched into the arena.
The atmosphere reached a crescendo with the arrival of high-profile guests. Governor Dapo Abiodun looked sophisticated in a uniquely designed yet simple red attire. Seyi Tinubu equally made a strong fashion statement in a mixed-coloured outfit that blended seamlessly with the cultural ambience of the day.
