Step with me into the vibrant world of the Ijebu people and Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey through the mesmerizing Ojude Oba Festival. This annual celebration is a sight to behold, steeped in rich tradition and boasting an irresistible festive ambience. Hold onto your hats as we ride along and discover what makes the Ojude Oba Festival an unmissable event, where history comes alive and cultural bonds are forged.
The Ojude Oba Festival traces back to 1892 during the reign of Oba Adesumbo Tunwase, the Awujale of Ijebuland. In his quest to promote unity and strengthen cultural ties, the benevolent monarch granted land for the establishment of a Central Mosque for Muslims and allowed British missionaries to preach Christianity in Ijebu Land. In gratitude for his generosity, the Muslims initiated the Ojude Oba Festival, a “Festival in the King’s Court,” to pay homage to the monarch who had shown them kindness.
Activities and Displays:
As the sun casts its warm glow upon the land, anticipation blankets Ijebuland, heralding the arrival of the Ojude Oba Festival. This grand event, held annually on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, entices locals, tourists, and esteemed dignitaries alike. The grand event showcases a splendid blend of pageantry, music, dance, and traditional attire.
A spectacle like no other, the Ojude Oba Festival showcases the majestic procession of age groups, affectionately known as the “Regberegbe.” Men, women, and children donned in resplendent attire represent their families and associations. With drums pulsating and voices raised in melodious harmony, each group parades with an air of pride and reverence for their beloved monarch.
Notable dignitaries and guests gather on the centre stage, flanking Awujale and his family on either side. The air is filled with a sense of reverence and excitement as the festival reaches its crescendo. Gunshots punctuate the air intermittently, accompanying the dance of warrior families and their entourage. Spectators are treated to captivating equestrian displays, as warriors parade with elegance and skill, captivating the audience’s attention.
Astonishingly, the Ojude Oba Festival also boasts a remarkable equestrian display. Horse riders, known as “Horsemen” or “Horse riders of Ijebu,” captivate the audience with their skilful horsemanship. Adorned in vibrant costumes, the riders showcase acrobatic feats, galloping with grace and precision, much to the delight of spectators. The atmosphere is further electrified by traditional music performances, including the enthralling “Gbedu” drumming and captivating “Sakara” music. The music reverberates through the air, inviting everyone to join in the festivities.
The Ojude Oba Festival’s significance extends beyond its captivating performances and displays. It serves as a unifying factor, bringing together the sons and daughters of Ijebuland from far and wide. It is a time when all members of the community, regardless of religion, join in paying homage to their traditional rulers and honouring the symbol of the Ijebu tradition. The festival amplifies and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Ijebu people, attracting visitors from all walks of life, both within and outside Nigeria. It is a testament to the enduring power of culture, commanding respect and fostering unity among diverse communities.
The Festival is a kaleidoscope of colours, a symphony of music, cuisine (Ifokore), and a jubilant testament to the rich tapestry of the Ijebu tradition. It transcends time, bringing together people of all ages in a harmonious celebration. It is a festival where history intertwines with the present, where traditions are passed down through generations, and where the Ijebu people proudly display their heritage for the world to see.
The Ojude Oba Festival is where the past and present converge in a dazzling display of tradition and celebration. Where the rhythmic beats of the drums and the vibrant energy of dancers transport you to a world of cultural splendour. It is an event that encapsulates the spirit and soul of the Ijebu people, a celebration that leaves an indelible mark on all who witness its grandeur.
IBRAHIM OLAJUMOKE.
