The Ojude Oba Festival is one of the most colourful Yoruba festivals, a yearly gathering in Ijebu-Ode where the Ijebu people pay homage to their king, the Awujale. Age-grade groups parade in matching outfits, horsemen ride through the town and thousands of visitors from Nigeria and abroad join in. This guide explains what it means and what to expect.
What Does Ojude Oba Mean?
The name means “the king’s courtyard”. The festival takes place in front of the Awujale’s palace and is held a few days after the Muslim festival of Eid-el-Kabir (known locally as Ileya). It is a celebration of Ijebu identity, unity and respect for the throne. Learn about Yoruba rulers in Yoruba kings and Obas.
The Regberegbe and the Parade
The heart of the festival is the parade of the Regberegbe, the age-grade and social groups of Ijebu. Each group chooses a theme and dresses in matching fabric, usually with elaborate caps and head ties, and arrives with singers and dancers to greet the Awujale. Horse riders, drummers and praise singers add to the spectacle; see the talking drum for the sound of such processions.
Fashion and Culture
The festival is famous for fashion. Families show off fabrics such as Aso Oke and Adire; see our guides to Yoruba traditional attire and Adire indigo cloth.
Tips for Visitors
- Check dates with local organisers, as the timing follows the Islamic calendar.
- Arrive early, as crowds are large and roads can close.
- Dress smartly and follow the instructions of marshals.
- Ask permission before photographing people.
More Yoruba Festivals
Compare it with other celebrations in our guide to major Yoruba festivals and read about the Ijebu and other Yoruba subgroups. Browse our Events category, or see the background on Wikipedia.
Ojude Oba FAQs
Where is Ojude Oba held?
In Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, in front of the Awujale’s palace.
What are the Regberegbe?
They are the age-grade and social groups that parade in matching outfits.
When is Ojude Oba?
It is held a few days after Eid-el-Kabir each year.
