From regberegbe dancers to bologun dancers, Ojude Oba 2025 promises to be a beautiful celebration of Yoruba culture, Ijebu-Ode attire and ancestral heritage.
Every year on the day after Eid al-Fitr, the town of Ijebu-Ode in southwestern Nigeria transforms into a festival of culture, tradition and tradition. The streets are filled with people dressed in beautiful traditional attire.
The sound of a song can be heard in the distance. In the middle is Awujale, the revered Ijebrande king, who greets not only his subjects but also the Ijebrande people who are returning home for the festival. This is Ojude Oba, one of the most fascinating and eye-catching cultural events in Nigeria.
Historically, Ojude Oba began with gratitude. In the 19th century, the Muslims of Ijebu Ode began visiting Awujale to thank him for his religious acceptance. Led by Imam Tunwatob, they paid homage to Awujale Ademuyewa Afidipotemole, whose rule promoted a spirit of tolerance.
Over time, this small act of worship has grown into an event that has captured the attention of the world. Today, the festival represents what it means to be part of a community rooted in tradition and in tune with the demands of the modern world.
Highlights of the Festival
The first is the Regberegbe group.
These groups are Ijebu men and women of all ages who dress up in traditional attire and perform annually to impress. It’s all about the fabrics, the bright colors, and the eye-catching accessories. Think Met Gala, but everyone wears Yoruba attire and dances in the streets. The Balogun family are descendants of Ijebu warriors and their journey is a spectacle in itself. They rode on beautiful horses and entered the venue to the sound of gun salutes and traditional military songs. These moments embody the courage and bright spirit of the festival.
The art of weaving also plays a very important role. Each regberegbe group presents new clothes every year, often using woven fabrics such as aso oke, adire, or sanyan. These items, which were never seen in previous years, form a visual record that changes interest and self-awareness.
What are you looking forward to this year?
If the 2024 Ojude Oba festival was as beautiful, with moments like the passing of Farouk Areagba, the 2025 festival will be even more exciting, traditional and musical. This year, the event will welcome a diverse audience: culture enthusiasts, fashion experts, politicians and returning Ijebu residents.
Get ready for exciting tours, exciting racing and exciting rugby matches that will make you want to be in Ijebu-Ode. But don’t worry, BellaNaija will be there, on the spot, documenting every beautiful moment. Follow the story.
Post a Comment