The Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, has grown into one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural spectacles—a breathtaking fusion of heritage, fashion, and star power. This year’s edition, Ojude Oba 2025, didn’t disappoint, drawing celebrities, dignitaries, and fashion lovers into the heart of Yoruba tradition.
What was once a local affair has now become a national event, thanks in part to the strategic investments by Governor Dapo Abiodun in tourism and cultural promotion. The parade of opulence, horse-riding processions, and camera-ready moments made this year’s celebration feel like the Met Gala of Nigerian culture.
Let’s dive into the celebrity appearances that truly shut down Ijebu-Ode:
Farouq Oreagba: The Man, The Majesty
Mr. Farouq Oreagba has once again proven why he’s the king of Ojude Oba fashion. After going viral in 2024, he returned with even more flair. Instagram clips show him practicing his horseback stance and prepping his regal agbada like a man on a mission. His signature steampunk glasses and confident stride? Unmatched. He didn’t just attend, he owned it—again!
Tayo Odueke (aka Sikiratu Sindodo): Dark Elegance
Nollywood veteran Tayo Odueke, popularly known as Sikiratu Sindodo, stepped out in a regal black Yoruba ensemble detailed with intricate beadwork and a bold headpiece. Her entire look was a masterclass in how to blend cultural richness with understated elegance. From her roots in Ijebu Ode to her reign on-screen, Tayo brought full-circle authenticity to the festival.
Tomike Adeoye: Velvet & Vulnerability
Tomike Adeoye, actress and media sweetheart, showed up in deep forest-green velvet—structured shoulders, delicate embellishments, and a gleaming metallic gele topped off with a black walking stick. But it wasn’t just about fashion. Having recently lost her mother, Tomike’s appearance was a heartfelt act of resilience. She carried herself with the grace of a queen and the strength of a warrior.
Wale Ojo: Culture with Class
Veteran actor Wale Ojo kept it classy in a richly embroidered green agbada, paired with a matching fila cap. While many overdo it, Wale proved that cultural style can be subtle yet powerful. As a vocal critic of the “japa” movement, his appearance was a proud statement of staying rooted, investing in home, and honoring tradition.
Femi Branch & Lateef Adedimeji: Bashorun Gaa & Lisabi Come Alive
These two Nollywood giants didn’t just dress for Ojude Oba—they brought Yoruba legends to life. Femi Branch and Lateef Adedimeji appeared as Bashorun Gaa and Lisabi respectively, clad in regal brocade agbadas, caps, beads, and itagbe. The reel of their entrance sent social media into a frenzy. Femi’s calm gravitas paired perfectly with Lateef’s fiery energy, symbolizing the balance of power and pride in Yoruba history.
Lil Kesh: The Rockstar Rider
Lil Kesh didn’t walk—he rode in. The rapper made a dramatic entrance on horseback, channeling pure Yoruba royalty with an edgy twist. His vibrant outfit and effortless charisma had fans and cameras locked in. His presence was loud, proud, and unforgettable—just how he likes it.
Governor Dapo Abiodun: The Royal Host
As the Chief Host, Governor Dapo Abiodun made his entrance in full traditional regalia, exuding leadership and cultural pride. His carefully curated look and statesmanlike poise were shared across major platforms, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba heritage.
Princess Adesile: Royal Blood, Modern Flair
Princess Adesile Ajigboteso, a direct descendant of Oba Ademuyewo Afidipotemole, returned to Ojude Oba with poise and power. Her horseback appearance was nothing short of regal. Dressed in vibrant fabrics and owning every step of the procession, she balanced traditional royalty with modern grace—and looked phenomenal doing it.
Akin Faminu: Fashion as Power
Style doctor Akin Faminu came to slay. In a bold navy blue aso-oke outfit by Deji & Kola, complete with golden stripes, dramatic shoulder pads, and a snake-shaped staff, Akin was easily one of the best-dressed at the festival. Known for his sharp fashion curation, he didn’t just attend Ojude Oba—he turned it into his runway.
Niyi Fagbemi: The Storyteller in Style
Filmmaker and documentarian Niyi Fagbemi didn’t just film Ojude Oba—he embodied it. Wearing a beautifully tailored native outfit with bold accessories and vibrant hues, Niyi fused his identity as a visual storyteller with his cultural roots. With millions of views on his documentaries spotlighting Yoruba tradition, his look and presence reinforced his status as a cultural custodian and media powerhouse.
On a final note, Ojude Oba 2025 was more than a festival—it was a fashion parade, a cultural manifesto, and a living museum of Yoruba heritage. From regal agbadas to statement staffs and horseback entrances, these celebrities didn’t just attend—they made history. If this is the future of cultural celebration in Nigeria, sign us up for Ojude Oba 2026.
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