The 2025 Ojude Oba Festival, one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural celebrations, will serve as a powerful platform for Ijebu leaders to demand the creation of Ijebu State with Ijebu-Ode as its capital. This historic announcement was made by Chief Olu Okuboyejo, Chairman of the Ojude Oba Festival Organising Committee, during a press briefing at the Awujale’s palace in Ijebu-Ode.
According to Dr. Fassy Yusuff, the festival coordinator, the push for Ijebu State has reached a critical stage. “Ijebu remains the oldest province in Nigeria yet to be granted statehood, despite our rich heritage, large population, and economic viability,” Yusuff stated. “This year’s festival will amplify our collective demand before national leaders and the world.”
The festival, themed “Ojude Oba: Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future,” is expected to draw over two million attendees, including tourists, diplomats, and government officials. Additionally, an estimated 200 million viewers worldwide will watch via live streaming.
Why Ijebu State?
The Ijebu people have long argued that their region—with its strategic location, vast landmass, and thriving commerce—deserves statehood. The proposed Ijebu State would include key cities like Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, and Epe, boosting regional development.
Dignitaries & Global Attention
The event will host high-profile guests, including:
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun
Minister of Arts & Culture Hannatu Musawa
Traditional rulers from across Yorubaland
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Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, will also unveil a special guest of honor, whose identity remains under wraps.
A Festival of Unity & Heritage
Originally a Muslim homage to the Awujale after Eid-el-Kabir, the Ojude Oba Festival has grown into a pan-cultural spectacle, celebrating Ijebu traditions through music, dance, and equestrian displays.
“This festival is Nigeria’s gift to the world—a model of religious tolerance and cultural pride,” said Ogun State’s Commissioner for Culture, Mr. Sesan Fagbayi.
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