The Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026 reached a spectacular climax at the Lekan Salami Stadium on the 18th of April. Thousands of residents and members of the diaspora gathered to celebrate Yoruba heritage and the historic traditions of the Pacesetter State. Among the highlights of the grand finale was the vibrant participation of the Omo Ajegbinyo Club, who turned the event into a masterclass in cultural preservation.
Led by President Engr. Azeez Rafiu Adekunle and Vice President Dr. Chief Mrs. Temitope Afolake Awotunde (FIPMLD), the club members expressed deep gratitude for the successful turnout. Their presence underscored the event’s core mission: to foster unity, harmony, and connection among all Ibadan indigenous people.
Celebrating the “Ajegbin” Tradition
The club captivated the crowd at this year’s edition of the festival by bringing their unique poetic namesake to life. Dr. Mrs. Awotunde joyfully explained the significance of their showcase, noting: “Ibadan Omo Ajegbin fi karahun foko.” She further defined the poetry, stating: “indigenes eats snails and, at the same time, uses the shell to swallow pap, with high nutritional value, as the poetry implies.”
The enthusiasts paraded with traditional calabashes filled with live snails. This symbolic act highlighted the rich history of a city that encompasses 63 towns and over 3,000 villages. By showcasing these traditions, the club aims to preserve their fatherland’s customs for unborn generations.
The CCII and the Spirit of Unity
The festivities were orchestrated by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), under the leadership of President General Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, the Aare Atunluse of Ibadan land. The 2026 planning committee, steered by Mogaji Akere Chief Moshood Akere and Hon. Kobiowu Aminat, worked tirelessly to ensure the event complemented ongoing state government development efforts.
The atmosphere was electric as international music stars, including the renowned Omo Rapala Alasakasa Obesere, provided a rhythm that kept the stadium dancing. Traditional Fuji and Alujo beats echoed through the venue, accompanied by an array of nourishing cultural dishes prepared by various affiliated clubs.
Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026: Roll call
The event attracted a host of distinguished guests, including the Arusa I, His Royal Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadan land. Other notable attendees included the Grand Matron of the CCII, Mrs. Teresa Laduntan Oyekanmi, the Iyalode of Ibadan land, and Alhaji Daud Makanjuola, the Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Edo, and Delta. Chief Kola Kareem served as the Chairman of the day, helping to preside over a celebration that reinforced the strength of the Ibadan community.
The executive team of the Omo Ajegbinyo Club, including Secretary Dr. Iyabo Fadiora and Treasurer Alh Hadi Raji, remains committed to this cause. As the dust settles on another successful festival, the club continues its work alongside members like Mr. Waheed Akorede and Engr. Bayonle Lasisi, ensuring that the spirit of the Pacesetter City remains vibrant and resilient for years to come.
