By Charles Pemu 
Over the weekend on a vibrant Sunday, the ancient town of Ijebu Ode burst forth in a spectacular symphony of culture, color, and tradition as it hosted the annual Ojude Oba festival. Thousands of sons and daughters of Ijebuland, joined by international tourists and cultural enthusiasts, converged to witness a magnificent display of Yoruba heritage, a living testament to ancestry, spirituality, and enduring community pride.
Ojude Oba, meaning “the king’s court,” is far more than a mere celebration; it is a profound historical tableau that comes alive once a year. It is the cherished moment when the entire Ijebu people, resplendent in their finest traditional attire, gather to pay homage to their revered monarch, the Awujale of Ijebuland. The air crackled with anticipation, a palpable excitement building towards the regal processions.
From dawn, the town swelled with energy. Groups of “Regberegbes” – the distinctive age grades – began to gather, each adorned in meticulously chosen, dazzling uniforms that shimmered under the sun. Their synchronized movements and joyous chants filled the streets, a testament to decades of shared history and communal bonds. Following them came the powerful “Baloguns” – the traditional warlords and their descendants – who galloped with thrilling precision on ornately decorated horses, showcasing breathtaking horsemanship that harked back to ancient warrior traditions. The thunder of hooves, the swirl of vibrant fabrics, and the roar of the crowds created an electrifying spectacle.
At the heart of the festivities was the Awujale’s court, the focal point of all reverence. As each group passed, they bowed deeply, offering prayers and renewed allegiance to their king, solidifying the spiritual and communal ties that bind the Ijebu people. It was a powerful affirmation of identity, a proud declaration of cultural continuity passed down through generations.
The festival’s allure has transcended its local origins, drawing admiration from scholars and visitors worldwide, cementing its place as a significant cultural event on the global stage. It is a vibrant illustration of how tradition, when nurtured, can become a beacon of identity and a source of profound pride.
As the sun set, casting long shadows over Ijebu Ode, the rhythms of the Regberegbes and the spirited cries of the Baloguns echoed, a timeless reminder of a people deeply connected to their roots, celebrating a heritage that continues to flourish, year after magnificent year.