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2026 Ojude Oba Festival: OmoOwo Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Heritage, Social Unity, Storms Festival Grounds in Style

By Dairo Johnson Daniel
BoldNEWS Africa
Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State

Alhaji Abdul-Hammed Femi Omotayo, popularly known as OmoOwo and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senatorial Candidate for Ogun East, made a remarkable appearance at the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, where he joined thousands of dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and indigenes in celebrating one of Nigeria’s most cherished cultural spectacles.

Arriving in grand style at the historic Awujale Palace grounds in Ijebu-Ode, OmoOwo drew attention from admirers and well-wishers as he joined other prominent personalities at the annual festival renowned for its rich display of Yoruba culture, tradition, and unity.

The PDP stalwart attended the event alongside the party’s governorship aspirant, Chief Ladi Adebutu, as well as party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters, underscoring the party’s continued engagement with grassroots communities and cultural institutions across Ogun State.

The colourful celebration attracted sons and daughters of Ijebuland from across Nigeria and the diaspora, traditional rulers, political leaders, business moguls, and tourists. Highlights of the festival included the famous Regberegbe age-grade processions, breathtaking horse-riding displays by families, vibrant cultural performances, and prayers for peace prosperity and sustained development Ijebuland and Ogun State.

OmoOwo was warmly welcomed by festival participants, many of whom commended his unwavering support for initiatives that promote cultural preservation, communal harmony, and socio-economic development.

Continuing his community engagements, the Ogun East senatorial hopeful proceeded to Abeokuta on Saturday for the Egba Muslim Community Award Presentation Ceremony and Ariya Odun held at the historic Ake Palace Square.

Once again, he was accompanied by Chief Ladi Adebutu, PDP leaders, Governorship Candidate, and party faithful and supporters

The event brought together eminent Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, professionals, community leaders, and public figures in celebration of faith, service, and communal progress.

In a gesture that further demonstrated his commitment to community development, OmoOwo made a donation towards the ongoing expansion project of the Egba Central Mosque. The contribution was warmly acknowledged by organisers and attendees, who praised his readiness to support initiatives aimed at strengthening religious and community infrastructure.

His participation at both events reinforced his advocacy for religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and stronger social bonds among the diverse people of Ogun State.

Attendees also lauded his accessibility and dedication to grassroots engagement.

Speaking on the significance of the two gatherings, OmoOwo stressed that cultural heritage and religious values remain fundamental pillars for building a peaceful, prosperous, and united society.

“Ogun State’s greatest strength lies in its rich cultural diversity, enduring traditions, and the collective determination of its people to pursue unity and progress,” he said.

According to him, active participation in cultural and religious events provides a valuable platform for leaders to connect directly with citizens, understand their aspirations, and contribute meaningfully to discussions that advance development and social cohesion.

Political observers noted that the presence of OmoOwo, Chief Ladi Adebutu, party leaders, and supporters at both events reflects the PDP’s sustained efforts to maintain close ties with grassroots communities while identifying with cultural and religious institutions that continue to shape the social fabric of Ogun State.

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, OmoOwo’s visibility at major cultural and religious gatherings continues to reinforce his message of inclusiveness, people-centred leadership, and a vision for a more united, peaceful, and progressive Ogun State.