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Before June 18, 2024, successful business magnate Farooq Oreagba had hardly attracted attention. But during Eid, social media went viral with his stunning photos wearing dark sunglasses and a bright yellow-green agbada. The agbada was made of ofhi, a thick, hand-woven material common in the southwestern region of Nigeria. The tattoos on his sleeves added to the allure. He soon became the face of the 2024 Ojude Oba Festival, an annual festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria.
“I have failed,” said the CEO of NG Clearing Limited.
The festival has gained so much attention over the past few years in part because of the immediacy and reach of social media.
Former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, himself an Ogun State native, praised Ohude Oba village as representing a “beautiful sight” that is “full of taste, beauty, culture and elegance”.
Origin of Ojude Oba
The Ojude Oba Festival is steeped in religion and Yoruba culture. Held annually on the third day of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, the festival has been around for over a hundred years. The festival has gained national attention for its historical celebrations, the flamboyant display of Yoruba fashion, the craftsmanship of the Ofi (also known as aso oke) weavers, and the community life and respect for culture.
Some historical records and academic studies indicate that the Ojude Oba Festival was originally a way for Muslims and new converts to express gratitude to the Awujale, the paramount ruler of the Ijebu region. When Balogun Kuku, a prominent figure in the Ijebu community, converted to Islam, he gathered his friends, family and supporters to pay tribute to the king and thank him for allowing them to practice their religion in peace.
There is a legend that Muslims would go to Awjal’s court after Eid to pay him respects and thank him for allowing them to practice Islam without interference and intimidation.
Another version of the story is attributed to Imam Tunwatoba, who led his family and companions to pay respects to his friend, Oba Fidipote, the Awujale of Ijebulan during Eid al-Adha. The Imam thanked the king for creating a peaceful environment for Muslims to practice their faith without interference. They prayed for the king’s longevity and good health, and for Ijebulan to prosper. What started as a simple act of respect has evolved into a grand cultural festival. It celebrates the religious freedom of the past as well as the rich cultural heritage and unity of the people of Ijebulan.
What to expect in 2024
The 2024 Ojude Oba Festival is a visual and cultural feast. The streets of Ijebu-Ode are ablaze with colour as participants dress in their finest traditional attires. The “regberegbes” or age groups parade in coordinated costumes, each trying to outdo the other in friendly competition. Various competitions are also organised by the festival’s sponsors to add colour and vibrancy to the festivities.
Farouk Oregba’s presence was undoubtedly the highlight of the event. He rode proudly and confidently on his horse, wearing a green and lemon Agbada and Sokoto suit, accessorized with a matching hat, red coral beads and a gold crossbody chain. His tattoos, pipe, sunglasses and smartwatch added a modern touch to his traditional attire, making him the center of attention.
Another striking image from the festival was Companions of Sinfrakshe exuded elegance in her red highlighted iro and buba aso oke, with a gele of the same colour on her head. Her subtle glam make-up, bold red lips, red coral beads, heavy gold jewellery and D&G sunglasses made her a symbol of the festival’s fusion of tradition and modernity.
Cultural significance
More than a visual feast, the Ojude Oba Festival is a celebration of community and identity. It brings together Ijebu sons and daughters from all over the world, fostering a sense of belonging and heritage. The festival is about honouring the past and inspiring future generations to cherish and preserve their traditions.
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, described Ojude Oba as a platform to promote unity and boost tourism.The Federal Government plans to list the festival as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) supported festival which will enhance its international profile.
The role of fashion
Fashion plays a major role in the Ojude Oba, with participants showcasing the finest of Yoruba textile art. The intricate designs of the aso oke and the ornate draping of the agbada showcase the exquisite skills of the local weavers. Each family, known as the “egbes,” parades in coordinated outfits, turning the event into a catwalk of cultural pride and splendor.
The festival has become a stage where tradition meets modernity. While the costumes are deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, modern fashion elements are seamlessly incorporated, influencing both the old and young generations. This blend of old and new is one of the reasons why Ojude Oba is so fascinating.
Community Spirit
At its core, the Ojude Oba Festival is a celebration of unity and community life. It brings together people from different walks of life, united by their shared traditions and culture. The festival showcases the strength and resilience of the Ijebu people, who have managed to retain their traditions while embracing modernization.
As the drums fade and the lights dim, the spirit of Ojude Oba continues to inspire. Each participant leaves with fond memories of the beauty of tradition and a renewed sense of community. The festival is a permanent reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and the need to pass it on to future generations.
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