By ThankGod Nnaji
The recent Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, was a great display of culture and fashion, with over 90 age groups participating and the Balogun Kuku family winning the parade for the eighth time.The festival took place on June 18, 2024, two days after Eid-el-Kabir, and the theme for this year’s celebrations was “Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift”. The event started with a grand procession led by the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, and featured a stunning display of colourful attire by various age groups, known as ‘regberegbe’.
The regberegbes, comprising men and women of various age groups, adorned intricate and colourful outfits, showcasing the rich cultural love of the Ijebu people. The outfits, designed by local fashion designers, featured attractive patterns and designs, showing the skills of the Ijebu people. The festival also featured horse-riding competitions, cultural performances, and traditional music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. The attendees, including dignitaries and visitors from around the world, were treated to a feast of colours, sounds, and cultural displays. The event also featured a fashion show, where models showcased modern and traditional outfits, highlighting the differences between traditional and modern fashion. The show was organized by the Ijebu Fashion Council, which aims to promote the Ijebu fashion industry and provide a platform for local designers to showcase their talents.