The 2026 Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, attracted several notable personalities, including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.
Seyi Tinubu’s appearance at the festival stirred excitement among many young attendees, who cheered enthusiastically as he arrived at the venue.
Also spotted at the colourful event was the APC governorship candidate, Solomon Adeola, widely known as Yayi. He entered the festival arena with his supporters and acknowledged greetings from the crowd.
Fashion entrepreneur and socialite Farooq Oreagba, popularly referred to as “Mr Steeze”, once again became one of the centrepieces of the celebration with his dramatic horseback entrance.
Oreagba appeared dressed in a white agbada and purple cap, sustaining the distinct cultural image that has earned him attention in recent years, while holding a cigarette during the horse ride.
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As activities intensified at the venue, different age grades and groups prepared for their traditional processions in matching aso-oke, lace fabrics, and richly designed cultural outfits.
The processions remained one of the festival’s defining attractions, symbolising unity, honour, and ancestral heritage among the Ijebu people.
The renowned Balogun horse-riding families were also expected to entertain guests with displays linked to bravery, prestige, and affluence.
Music, drumming, dancing, and social interactions continued across the venue as more guests trooped in for the annual celebration.
Videos and photographs from the event captured the lively atmosphere, with groups arriving in coordinated attire featuring flowing agbadas, colourful gele, and elaborately crafted beadwork.
This year’s edition of the Ojude Oba Festival carries added significance as it marks the first celebration following the death of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.
Despite the ongoing transition within the royal institution, organisers had earlier maintained that the festival would hold in honour of the late monarch’s enduring legacy and dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Ijebuland.
