The 34th Ikorodu Oga Festival opens with prayers, cultural parades and new events as residents and visitors celebrate Lagos heritage

The much-anticipated 34th edition of the Ikorodu Oga Festival lived up to expectations on Saturday as thousands of residents and guests thronged the streets to mark the opening of the week-long celebration.

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The festivities began with interdenominational prayers, a Woro procession, and the newly introduced Fanti carnival and All-White Party — additions that added fresh vibrancy to this year’s celebration of Ikorodu’s cultural identity.

The colourful procession took off from the Ikorodu Town Hall after prayers, weaving through traditional routes including Olubi Street, Ayangbure Road, Ita Elewa, Aga, Ireshe Road, and Itunmeko before culminating at the Ayangbure Palace.

Oba Shotobi: “Ikorodu is safe, united and peaceful”

Welcoming guests, including visitors from Ireland, Germany, and the European Union, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, expressed gratitude for their presence and commended residents for preserving their heritage.

“We are celebrating the 34th anniversary of the Ikorodu Oga Festival. You have seen that everywhere is lively. There’s no insecurity here — Christians, Muslims, and others live together in peace,” the monarch said.

Oba Shotobi also hinted at possible structural changes to the Fanti Carnival, acknowledging calls to make it a standalone event due to its growing popularity.

He praised Ikorodu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Adedayo Ladega, for his support and reiterated his call for Ikorodu to produce the next Governor of Lagos State in 2027.

Community leaders laud unity and participation

IKODASS Chairman, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole Olayiwola, applauded the turnout, describing it as a symbol of unity and growth.

“Ikorodu has been lively and peaceful, and it will continue to be so. Every part of Ikorodu — Aga, Ijomu, Isele — has come together as one united family,” he said.

Chairman Ladega also pledged continuous improvement in future editions, promising an even grander celebration next year.

Foreign guests praise Ikorodu’s cultural heritage

European visitors were full of admiration for the community’s hospitality and strong cultural pride.

Mr Franklin, an EU immigration officer, said:

“It’s good to keep your heritage because it’s something that belongs to you and will never be taken away. We appreciate how Ikorodu people celebrate together.”

Another visitor, Mrs Basrah from England and Turkey, described the experience as “enlightening and inspiring”, while Mr Ron Hendricks, also from the EU delegation, lauded Nigeria’s cultural diversity.

“We from the European Union support the preservation of cultural heritage. It’s impressive to see how the people of Ikorodu celebrate together — young and old alike,” Hendricks said.

Looking ahead

The Ikorodu Oga Festival, which runs until 15 November 2025, features traditional performances, parades, and social events culminating in a grand finale.

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As the celebration continues, Ikorodu once again stands out as a model of cultural preservation, unity, and peaceful coexistence in Lagos State.