The historic festival cements its place as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and visually striking celebrations.
For decades, Ojude Oba has captivated fashion and cultural enthusiasts beyond Ijebuland. However, the 2024 edition propelled the festival into national prominence, fueled by social media buzz and the breathtaking traditional styles flaunted by attendees.
Dating back to 1878, the festival is celebrated on the third day of Eid, when the people of Ijebu gather to honor the Awujale, the paramount ruler of Ijebuland—a tradition deeply rooted in spirituality and glamour. The 2024 festivities saw the emergence of Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as the “King of Steeze,” as a standout figure. His bold poses and striking traditional ensembles commanded admiration across social media, cementing his status as the face of that year’s cultural showcase.
Inspired by the renewed prominence, celebrities—some without Ijebu heritage—have now embraced the festival as an avenue for bold fashion statements and cultural expression. The 2025 Ojude Oba marked a groundbreaking moment, with a diverse mix of personalities gracing the event. Among them were Lateef Adedimeji, Ibrahim Chatta, Lil Kesh, Ebenezer Obey, Sulaimon Alao, and Shefiu Alao, all of whom showcased their appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Regberegbe parade—an age-group procession that showcases the vibrancy of Ijebu culture through distinct dressing styles and dance patterns. This practice was revived in the 18th century by Oba Adetona to foster unity and community development among the Ijebu people. Today, Ojude Oba attracts over a million attendees from across Nigeria and beyond, making it one of the country’s grandest cultural festivals.
Here are some celebrities who made a statement at this year’s festival:
- Farooq Oreagba
The festival’s leading personality once again stole the spotlight, dressed in a regal yellow and green agbada, adorned with royal beads and a traditional cap.
- Princess Adesile
Opting for a non-traditional twist, she impressed in an agbada, paired with a cap and staff, and even made a grand entrance on horseback.
- Lil Kesh
Kehinde Ololade, popularly known as Lil Kesh, arrived in a vibrant yellow agbada on horseback, effortlessly blending style with cultural heritage.
- Femi Branch
Courtesy of Adron Homes, the Basorun Gaa actor embodied royalty in his regal attire.
- Lateef Adedimeji
Representing his Lisabi warrior persona, Lateef made a striking entrance in warrior regalia.
- Sikiratu Sindodo (Tayo Odueke)
She embraced elegance with a black aso-oke featuring floral details, perfectly paired with a gele and a golden fan.
- Wale Ojo
Always exuding grace, Wale Ojo stunned in a royal green agbada with exquisite details.
- Ibrahim Chatta
His arrival was nothing short of iconic—entering on horseback while reciting Ijebu oriki (praise poetry), clad in a traditional warrior outfit.
- Tomike Adeoye
As Maltina’s brand ambassador, she turned heads in a green agbada adorned with pearls and intricate embroidery, finished with a gele and staff.
- Akin Faminu
The fashion influencer made a grand entrance in a Deji and Kola agbada, distinguished by an oversized shoulder detail.
- Ebunoluwa Dosumu
Representing Viva Detergent, the journalist and red carpet host dazzled in an opulent agbada with shimmering textures, topped with an equally extravagant gele and staff.