Governor Dapo Abiodun gathered with more than one million residents in Ijebu-Ode to commemorate Ojude Oba, the traditional Ojude Oba Festival which was held three days following Eid-el-Kabir. The festival brought together daughters and sons of Ijebuland from all over the world to honour their royal father and the Awujale of Ijebuland..
The festival showcased a wealth of displays of culture, including parades of groups of the age group dressed in elegant costumes, traditional dancing, drumming and horse-drawn procession. It is among Nigeria’s most vibrant festivals and is a source of deep importance for Ijebu people.
Governor Abiodun described this event to be “a proud symbol of Ijebu identity and unity.” He acknowledged the people’s efforts to preserve their traditions and making use of the occasion to help promote peace and progress.
He also declared the administration of his is determined to making Oba Oba into a major tourist destination. He said that the event could bring more money, increase local businesses, and help promote Ogun State’s culture heritage.
Abiodun advised people to continue to support peace and growth as well as development of the community. He expressed his gratitude for the leadership of Awujale and the devotion by Ijebu people. Ijebu residents to their traditional values.
The governor finished with a rousing eulogy to the monarch and the other participants, saying “Ojude Oba is more than an event. It’s a celebration our identity and where we came from and the values we hold dear. .”
