By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) Senatorial candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, and his ally, the party’s stalwart in Oyo Central, Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi, popularly known as AROSAD, joined traditional rulers, political leaders, cultural enthusiasts and hundreds of residents on Saturday at the colourful 2026 Eyeba and Siaba Egungun Festival held in Oyagbe, Oyo Town.
The annual festival, hosted by Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa, celebrated the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Yoruba people under the theme, “Bibo Gbogbo Orisa,” a traditional gathering dedicated to the veneration of Yoruba deities, including Sango, Ogun, Osun and other Orisa revered across Yorubaland.
Held at Oke-Olola Grammar School, Oyagbe, the event attracted a large audience from within and outside Oyo State. The atmosphere came alive with colourful masquerade displays, traditional drumming, cultural dances and prayers for peace, prosperity and unity.
Popular Ibadan-based Fuji musician Alhaji Taiwo Akande Adebisi, widely known as Taye Currency, thrilled guests with electrifying performances that kept the crowd entertained throughout the celebration.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the event, Ambassador Ajadi described the Egungun Festival as one of the enduring symbols of Yoruba identity and urged governments at all levels to give greater attention to the preservation and promotion of indigenous cultural heritage.
“Our culture is our identity. Festivals like this remind us of where we come from and the values that have kept our communities united for generations. We must continue to preserve these traditions because they promote peace, tourism, economic opportunities and cultural education for younger generations.”
Ajadi commended Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa for sustaining the festival and ensuring that Yoruba customs are passed from one generation to another.
“I congratulate Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa and every stakeholder who has continued to keep this cultural institution alive. Their commitment deserves recognition because cultural festivals strengthen social cohesion and attract visitors who contribute to the local economy.”
The APM senatorial hopeful also pledged continued support for initiatives that promote cultural tourism, youth engagement and community development across Oyo Central Senatorial District.
“As leaders, we have a responsibility to support programmes that preserve our heritage while creating opportunities for our people. Culture should not only be celebrated; it should also become a source of economic empowerment through tourism, creative arts and local enterprise.”
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Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi (AROSAD) equally praised the organisers, describing the festival as a symbol of the unity and resilience of the Yoruba people.
He urged young people to embrace their cultural roots while pursuing education and innovation, noting that preserving tradition does not conflict with modern development.
Host of the event, Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa, thanked political leaders, traditional worshippers, community members and visitors for honouring the invitation, saying the annual festival remains a platform for promoting peace, unity and respect for Yoruba customs.
She explained that the Eyeba and Siaba Festival has continued to grow in popularity because of the collective commitment of devotees and community leaders to preserving the spiritual and cultural values of the Yoruba race.
The event featured spectacular masquerade processions, traditional rites, cultural performances, prayers, music and goodwill messages from invited guests, making it one of the biggest cultural gatherings in Oyo Town this year.
Observers described the presence of Ambassador Ajadi, Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi (AROSAD) and other political leaders as a demonstration of growing support for the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage and community-based festivals across Oyo State.
