Imagine a sea of vibrant fabrics swirling to thunderous drumbeats. Magnificent horses, adorned in embroidery, parade proudly. Grand societies compete in dazzling displays of dance, fashion and prestige. At the centre sits a revered king, receiving the joyous homage of his people. This is “Ojude Oba Festival”, also known as “The King’s Forecourt” — a breathtaking cultural explosion held annually in Ijebu Ode, Nigeria. The 2025 edition, themed “Unity and Harmony for National Development,” was its most spectacular yet, marking a significant step onto the global stage.
The Ijebu People: Heritage and Identity
The festival belongs to the Ijebus, a distinct subgroup of Nigeria’s Yoruba people in Ogun State. Renowned for their entrepreneurial spirit and unique traditions, the Ijebu trace their origins through captivating migration stories — some pointing to ancient Sudan (Waddai), others to the revered Yoruba city of Ile-Ife. Their name, “Ijebu” (from “Ije” and “Ibu,” meaning “feed off the deep”), reflects historical ties to trade and coastal waters. Ijebu Ode is their royal capital, and where the festival happens annually. The paramount ruler of the Ijebu people, the present King, Oba Sikiru Adetona Ogbagba II, the Awujale (“the one who carries the trumpet of authority”), has been reigning for more than 60 years. However, the Ojude Oba festival goes way back to the 19th Century when Islam spread to Ijebu land.
Roots: From Gratitude to Grand Celebration
Ojude Oba’s origins are unique, blending faith and royal patronage. It began over a century ago during the reign of Awujale Adesumbo Tunwase. Initially, it was a gesture of thanksgiving by early Muslim converts in Ijebuland. Celebrated on the third day after Eid al-Adha (the Muslim “Feast of Sacrifice”), they visited the Awujale’s palace to thank him for supporting their faith and seek blessings.
Additionally, two figures in history have also been associated with events that led to what we know as Ojude Oba today. They are Alli-Tubogun and Chief Balogun Kuku. Alli-Tubogun was a former slave whose open Islamic practice (c. 1878), supported by his master, boosted the religion’s growth in Ijebu and got the attention of the King and his court.
On the other hand, Chief Balogun Kuku, a powerful leader in Ijebu land, converted to Islam (c. 1896) after forsaking Christianity due to its restriction on polygamy. His influential conversion significantly boosted Islam’s followership.
The Ojude Oba Festival was also said to have evolved from another festival called Odeda Festival, where devotees of traditional religions showcased their identities through dance and music annually. After embracing Islam, Chief Kuku initiated the Ita-Oba festival, later transforming it into the renowned Ojude Oba Festival, widely celebrated among the Ijebu people and recognised globally.
Over time, Ojude Oba transcended its Islamic roots. While retaining its post-Eid timing and incorporating Muslim prayers, it blossomed into an all-encompassing cultural celebration, embracing people of all faiths. It became the ultimate expression of Ijebu unity, pride, and identity under their king.