Kunle Adelabu
The 2026 Oro Ajede Festival will hold Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, in Ijede, Ijede Local Council Development Council (LCDA), Ikorodu Division of Lagos State, Southwest, Nigeria.
It is the first Oro festival that will be held under the reign of HRM Oba Adefarasin Saheed Hassan, Ajanaku II, Alajede of Ijede Kingdom.
In separate statements signed by HRM Oba Adefarasin Saheed Hassan, Ajanaku II, Alajede of Ijede Kingdom and the Office of the Executive Chairman, residents of Ijede and the general public are enjoined to take note of the date for the age-long traditional festival.
According to the palace, the community will host its festivities on the eve of Ajede Festival on 21st August 2026, during which residents and guests – male and female alike, will partake in the celebrations till around 12midnight when the females are expected to go indoor for the on 22nd August 2026, for the Oro festival till the morning of 23rd August 2026, when normal movement resumes.
“It is my pleasure to announce the 2026 Ajede Oro Festival, a cherished celebration of our cultural heritage.
“This year’s celebration is especially significant as it marks my first Odun Ajede since my ascension to the throne of the Alajede of Ijede Kingdom”.
Oba Adefarasin urged residents of the kingdom to cooperate with the traditional institution for the forthcoming sacred festival.
“I enjoin all sons and daughters of Ijede, residents and visitors to respect our traditions and cooperate for a peaceful celebration.
“May this year’s Odun Ajede celebration strengthen our unity, preserve our heritage and bring peace and prosperity to Ijede Kingdom”.
In a separate statement by the council, while also notifying the public of the Oro Ajede Festival, it emphasised the need for female residents and visitors to stay away on the Oro day.
“In keeping with the long-standing traditional practice, female residents are respectfully advised to remain indoors from 11p.m. on Friday, August 21st until 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 23rd, 2026. This measure is observed in the interest of public safety and to ensure the peaceful and successful conduct of the festival.
“The council appreciates the cooperation of all residents in upholding this tradition, and wishes everyone a joyous celebration”.
