The 2025 edition of the iconic Ojude Oba Festival was overshadowed by tension and discontent among indigenes of Ijebu, who have openly cautioned Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, against politicising their revered cultural celebration.
Prominent voices within the Ijebu community expressed displeasure over what they described as a “deliberate shift of tradition” by the governor during the festival. They criticized Abiodun’s choice to act in a quasi-traditional role by greeting various regberegbe age groups—an honour typically reserved for the paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, or his appointed royal representatives.
“It is not the place of the governor to perform traditional rites or take on the role of greeting the regberegbes,” a respected Ijebu elder stated. “His duty is to sit as a dignitary and respect our tradition—not redefine it for political optics.”
While official sources cited health reasons for the Awujale’s absence at this year’s event, a well-placed palace insider suggested otherwise. According to the source, the monarch allegedly stayed away in protest of what he perceives as Governor Abiodun’s divisive approach to regional politics, particularly concerning the push for the creation of an Ijebu State.
“The Kabiyesi is deeply unhappy with how the governor has handled sensitive issues between the Ijebu and Remo people,” the source revealed. “There has always been unity, brotherhood, and peace between both groups. Unfortunately, this administration has introduced unprecedented strain under the guise of politics.”
The insider emphasized that under previous administrations, the cordial bond between the Ijebu and Remo was never in doubt. However, recent political maneuvers have caused cracks that many fear could widen if not urgently addressed.
“This is not just about Ojude Oba. It’s about respect, culture, and the future of our people. Our festival must never be reduced to a stage for political theatre,” another community leader added.
As calls grow louder for the governor to restore traditional order and honor, many within Ijebu hope that future editions of Ojude Oba will return to their roots—free from political interference.
