Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji
ABEOKUTA – The annual Ojude-Oba festival has been described as an example of religious tolerance and harmony among Nigerians both home and abroad.
Ojude-Oba is an Ijebu annual socio-cultural and economic festival in Ogun State, aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ijebuland.
Addressing journalists on Monday at a press conference held at Awujale’s palace, Ijebu-Ode, the Chairman Organizing Committee, Otunba Wahab Osinusi noted that, the festival over a decade has embraced peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Otunba Osinusi pointed out that, the festival has boosted commercial and trading activities of the Ijebuland, saying the festival has embarked on self-help projects to add value to the less privileged in the society.
According to him, the theme for this year’s festival is ” Celebration of Rich Cultural Heritage”, with the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki as the Special Guest of Honour.
Osinusi said the choice of the Senate President was not on the basis of politics. He disclosed that the festival would hold on Friday, August 24.
He said total number of 47 age grade social groups, 20 family warlords will be on display and pay homage to the Awujale of Ijebu-land, Oba Sikiru Adetona on the day.
“The Ojude-Oba festival is indeed a classic example and manifestation of religious tolerance. Ojude -Oba festival has been embraced not only by Ijebu at home and in the diaspora, but also by millions of people within and outside Nigeria. The festival is indeed the gift of the Ijebu nation to Nigeria and the rest of the world being a unique case study in religious tolerance and harmony.
“It provides the Ijebu nation the opportunity to supplicate to the Almighty God, take stock, embark on self-help projects, and reunite with the family members and acquaintances.
“The festival also boosts commerce and trade in its entirety as commercial and trade activities are at their peak before, during and after the festival “.