Eko Hot Blog reports that Hon. Sabiu Omolaja Adelaja, a former Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Epe, has announced that His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, the Aladeshonyin of Odo- Noforija, Epe, Lagos State, will no longer host the annual Ojude Oba festival.
He spoke on Monday during the 2024 Ojude Oba festival at the palace of the Aladeshonyin.
Hon. Adelaja expressed disappointment over the current state of affairs, emphasizing that it is disheartening for the community members to claim they are coming to greet the king while expecting him to bear the brunt of the hosting responsibilities.
“It is very bad for them to claim that they are coming to greet the king, yet he will be the one to host,” Adelaja remarked.
He pointed out that the annual Ojude Oba festival, which holds significant cultural and traditional importance, has seen diminishing communal participation.
This lack of involvement, he noted, not only undermines the spirit of the festival but also places an undue burden on the Kabiesi.
Hon. Adelaja called on all members of the Noforija community to unite and take collective responsibility for the festival.
“We must all join hands together and prepare to make the Ojude Oba an interesting and successful event going forward,” he urged.
He suggested that each household and local business contribute to the preparations, ensuring a more inclusive and community-driven celebration.
Adelaja’s speech resonated with many in attendance, sparking discussions on how best to reinvigorate the festival.
Suggestions ranged from forming a planning committee comprised of various community representatives to organizing fundraising events to support the festival’s expenses.
The Ojude Oba festival, traditionally a time for the community to pay homage to the king, features cultural displays, music, dance, and a showcase of traditional attire.
It has historically been a moment for the Noforija people to reflect on their heritage and celebrate their unity.
With the proposed changes, there is renewed hope that the festival will regain its former glory, driven by a more engaged and supportive community.
The call to action by Adelaja is seen as a pivotal moment that could redefine how the Ojude Oba festival is celebrated in Noforija, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
As preparations begin, all eyes will be on how the community responds to this call for greater involvement.
The success of future Ojude Oba festivals will undoubtedly depend on the collective efforts of Noforija’s indigenes, as they work together to honor their traditions and celebrate their culture in a meaningful way.
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