By Our Reporter.
The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State came alive on Friday as thousands of cultural enthusiasts, tourists, traditional rulers, and dignitaries gathered for the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious cultural celebrations.
The annual festival, renowned for its colourful displays of culture, fashion, and heritage, attracted visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, reaffirming its status as a globally recognised tourism and cultural event.
However, amid the breathtaking parades, horse-riding displays, and rich cultural pageantry, socialite and businessman Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as “Mr. Steeze,” once again emerged as the centre of attention.
Oreagba, whose stylish appearance at previous editions catapulted him into social media fame, made a grand entrance on horseback to the admiration of thousands of spectators. Clad in an elegant flowing white agbada and a distinctive purple cap, he maintained his signature cultural style as he majestically rode through the festival arena.
His appearance immediately sparked excitement online, with photographs and videos flooding social media platforms within minutes. Festival attendees and online users alike praised his unique blend of tradition, confidence, and fashion, further cementing his reputation as one of the festival’s most recognisable figures.
The 2026 Ojude Oba Festival also attracted several high-profile dignitaries, including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, and Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.
Seyi Tinubu’s arrival generated considerable excitement among young attendees, many of whom thronged the venue in an attempt to catch a glimpse of him. Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi and a leading APC governorship aspirant in Ogun State, was also present and received a warm welcome from supporters and festivalgoers.
One of the major highlights of the celebration remained the colourful procession of the various Regberegbe (age-grade groups), whose members dazzled spectators with coordinated aso-oke, lace fabrics, exquisite beads, and richly embroidered traditional attire. The displays reflected the unity, prestige, and enduring heritage of the Ijebu people.
The famous Balogun horse-riding families equally thrilled guests with spectacular equestrian performances symbolising courage, wealth, honour, and the martial traditions of Ijebuland.
Throughout the event, the sounds of talking drums, traditional music, and cultural performances filled the atmosphere as guests danced, mingled, and celebrated the rich legacy of the Ijebu nation.
This year’s festival carried deep emotional significance as it marked the first Ojude Oba celebration following the passing of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. Despite the ongoing royal transition, organisers proceeded with the festival in honour of the late monarch’s enduring legacy and his lifelong commitment to preserving and promoting Ijebu culture.
The 2026 Ojude Oba Festival therefore served not only as a celebration of tradition, identity, and cultural pride but also as a fitting tribute to a monarch whose influence helped transform the event into an internationally recognised cultural brand.Alternative Captions:
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