OJUDE OBA
The Ogun State Police Command has deployed no fewer than 2,500 security operatives across Ijebu Ode and neighbouring communities ahead of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival.
Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, disclosed that the massive deployment forms part of proactive security measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful, safe, and hitch-free celebration during this year’s cultural event.
Ojude Oba, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural festivals, is traditionally held on the third day after Eid el-Kabir. The annual event attracts thousands of visitors, tourists, dignitaries, and sons and daughters of Ijebu land who gather to pay homage to the Awujale while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the people through colourful attire, horse riding displays, music, and traditional performances.
This year’s edition is expected to carry deep emotional significance as it will be the first Ojude Oba Festival without the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away in July 2025 after an extraordinary 65-year reign.
In a statement issued by the police spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, authorities revealed that extensive security arrangements have already been put in place across strategic locations within Ijebu Ode and surrounding areas.
According to the statement, armoured personnel carriers, patrol vehicles, motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives, and rapid response squads have been deployed to key points including the festival pavilion, major highways, hotels, worship centres, markets, and motor parks.
The police also confirmed that tactical units such as the Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit are participating in the operation to strengthen security throughout the festival period.
Officers involved in the operation have reportedly been directed to maintain professionalism, respect the rights of citizens, and ensure effective crowd control, traffic management, and rapid emergency response where necessary.
The Ogun State Police Command further warned criminal elements and troublemakers to stay away from the celebration, stressing that security agencies are fully prepared to deal decisively with any attempt to disrupt public peace.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, residents and visitors are hopeful that the event will once again showcase the beauty, unity, and cultural pride of Ijebu land under tight security surveillance.
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