Why Awujale was absent at 2025 Ojude Oba festival

Why Awujale was absent at 2025 Ojude Oba festival

The 91-year-old Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, was noticeably absent from the Ojude Oba festival on Sunday in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

Source said the revered traditional ruler who turned 91 last Monday could not attend the colourful event because of his old age, but they quickly added that the monarch is hale and hearty.

He was represented by his wife, Olori Kemi Adetona.

This annual cultural celebration, held three days after Eid-el-Kabir, is a cherished tradition where the people of Ijebu land, adorned in vibrant attire, gather to pay homage to the Awujale and showcase their rich heritage through various displays, including horse riding.

However, the esteemed monarch, who has long presided over the festival, receiving tributes from thousands of guests, tourists, and Ijebu natives, was missing from this year’s event.

However, concerns are also said to be mounting over the health of the royal father.

A senior official from the state government who pleaded not to be quoted also confirmed that the absence of the royal father was due to old age and that nothing was wrong with the health of the paramount ruler.

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