Ojude Oba 2026: Tradition, tourism and the changing face of Yoruba heritage

The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State pulsed with vibrant energy on May 29, 2026 (the third day after Eid al-Kabir), as the Ojude Oba Festival unfolded in grand style. The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State pulsed with vibrant energy on May 29, 2026 (the third day after Eid al-Kabir), as the Ojude Oba Festival...

• The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State pulsed with vibrant energy on May 29, 2026 (the third day after Eid al-Kabir), as the Ojude Oba Festival unfolded in grand style.
• This annual celebration, which can be loosely translated to mean “the King’s Forecourt,” drew thousands of participants, dignitaries, celebrities, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts.It showcased the rich Yoruba heritage through coordinated regberegbe (age-grade) processions, majestic horse parades, and opulent traditional fashion.TOFARATI IGE writes on the different dimensions of the festival, highlighting its economic impact as well as areas for improvement Awujale’s absence felt This edition was particularly significant because it was the first since the passing of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in July 2025 after a 65-year reign.