Ojude Oba ("The King's Forecourt") is a spectacular annual festival in Ijebu-Ode celebrating the Awujale (traditional ruler) and Ijebu culture. Held on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir, the festival features age-grade groups (regberegbe) in colorful traditional attire competing in displays. The highlight is the parade of horse-riding warriors in full regalia, showcasing horsemanship skills. Thousands gather to pay homage to the Awujale while celebrating Ijebu heritage. The festival includes music, drumming, and traditional dances. Ojude Oba attracts tourists globally and has become one of Nigeria's most photographed cultural events. It demonstrates how Islamic and traditional Yoruba cultures harmoniously blend in Ijebuland.


HOMAGE TO THE AWUJALE:
Ojude Oba gathers Ijebu sons and daughters on the third day after Eid-el-Kabir to pay tribute to the Awujale (king). Regberegbe age-grade groups parade in aso-oke attire, each presenting choreographed dances and praise chants.

EQUESTRIAN SPLENDOUR:
Horse-riding families such as the Kuku and Aniyikaiye clans perform daredevil gallops, twirling spears and firing ceremonial rifles. Fashion houses showcase intricate embroidery, inspiring global designers.

CULTURAL FUSION:
The festival blends Islamic piety with Yoruba tradition, featuring Quranic recitations, talking-drum orchestras, and gospel choirs. Vendors serve ofada rice, ijebu garri, and agbalumo juice to thousands of guests.

ECONOMIC DRIVER:
Hotels, transport operators, and artisans receive a seasonal boost. Sponsorships from banks and telecoms fund scholarships, healthcare outreach, and infrastructure upgrades in Ijebuland.

FAST FACTS:
- Venue: Awujale’s palace square, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
- Participants: over 75 regberegbe groups plus diaspora contingents.
- Slogan: “Ojude Oba—Our Heritage, Our Pride.”
- Iconography: teal, gold, and red textiles symbolizing royalty and wealth.