Beautiful faces, fashion from 2026 Ojude Oba festival

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IJEBU-ODE— A breathtaking fusion of heritage and high fashion took over Ijebu-Ode as the 2026 Ojude Oba festival delivered its signature glitz.

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Top dignitaries, including Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Otunba Gbenga Danieland Seyi Tinubu, among others graced the Awujale Palace pavilion to partake in the cultural fiesta.

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Serving as a massive runway for Yoruba elegance, the event—traditionally hosted on the third day of Eid-el-Kabir—saw thousands of attendees stepping out in breathtaking styles.

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The renowned regberegbe (age-grade societies) stole the show, parading in bespoke aso-oke, majestic agbadas, and flamboyant geles, all perfectly complemented by heavy royal beads and the energetic rhythm of traditional drummers.

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Entrance of Mr steeze, King of Cool’ Farooq Oreagba

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This year’s gathering carried a deeply emotional undertone. It marked the first celebration since the passing of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who joined his ancestors last July after an unprecedented 65-year reign. The entire pageant was specially dedicated to honouring his monumental legacy and lifelong commitment to Ijebu unity.

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Giving the crowd a dose of undeniable ‘steeze’, finance executive Farooq Oreagba became a major centre of attraction. He commanded attention as he rode through the arena on horseback, decked out in a crisp white agbada accented with striking purple embroidery.

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Beyond the glamorous photo opportunities and celebrity sightings, the historic gathering once again proved to be a massive catalyst for Ogun State’s local economy, drawing diaspora tourists, boosting grassroots trade, and cementing the festival as a premier hub for Nigerian cultural tourism.

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