Royal Splendour as Oba Sopenlukale Hosts Annual Oke-Sopen Egungun Festival in Ijebu-Igbo

Ayo Marvel Posted on 1 hour ago 2 minutes read

The ancient town of Oke-Sopen in Ijebu Igbo, Ijebu North area of Ogun State came alive with colour, culture and excitement as the annual Oke-Sopen Masquerade Festival was celebrated in grand style at the Oba Sopenlukale Royal Arcade Palace way at Itowo Oke Sopen Ijebu Igbo.

The event was graciously hosted by His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Mufutau Adesesan Yusuf, FAAC, FCIML, FICP, (Erinkintola I) the Sopen Lukale of Oke Sopen kingdom who welcomed sons, daughters, chiefs and distinguished guests to the cultural gathering in celebration of Odun Egungun, one of the most cherished traditional festivals in Yorubaland.

The festival witnessed the majestic appearance of the revered Oke-Sopen masquerades, attracting large crowds who gathered to witness the rich display of Yoruba cultural heritage and ancestral traditions.

Among the notable personalities present were the Oke-Sopen Otunbas and Chiefs, the Olorituns, the Babaloja of Ijebu North, the Iyaloja of Ijebuland, the Olori Ilu Topon and several traditional title holders.

The Egungun procession was led by the respected Adiro, alongside the three Laagbas of Oke-Sopen, the three Iya Agan’s and the three Iya Mode’s.

Also in attendance were the Head of all Laagbas in Ijebu-Igbo and the Laaba of Oke-Agbo, adding prestige and significance to the cultural celebration.

The festival featured special prayers for peace, progress and prosperity, as well as captivating ancestral dances, traditional music performances, cultural displays and moments of joy and excitement that united members of the community and visitors alike.

Speaking on the importance of the festival, Oba Dr. Mufutau Yusuf emphasized the need to preserve and promote cultural values for future generations. Kabeyiesi Oba Sopen noted that the annual celebration serves as a reminder of the rich history, customs and identity of the Oke-Sopen people.

The 2026 Oke-Sopen Masquerade Festival once again demonstrated the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while fostering unity, peace and development among its people.

For the sons and daughters of Oke-Sopen, the event was not only a celebration of tradition but also a proud moment to honour their ancestry and showcase the beauty of Yoruba culture to the world.