“The grand finale of the traditional and cultural event was also a tourism affairs in view of its potentials to boost tourism development in Ekiti State as it attracted tourists who came from different parts to be part of the august celebration”
By John Odunayo
Otun Ekiti, the headquarters of Moba Local Government areas of Ekiti State, was the cynosure of all eyes on Saturday, May 10, 2025 as it played host to the high and mighty for the celebration of this year’s Egungun Festival of the community.
“The grand finale of the traditional and cultural event was also a tourism affairs in view of its potentials to boost tourism development in Ekiti State as it attracted tourists who came from different parts to be part of the august celebration.”
The Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo, who is the custodian of the culture, heritage and tradition of Otun Moba people worldwide, demonstrated the hospitality of the Otun people as he played host to guests who had thronged the ancient city for the festival, which takes place once in two years.
The indigenes of Otun Ekiti, with happiness and excitement boldly written on their faces, were at the occasion in their numbers as they relished every moment of the celebrations.
A major attraction was when masquerades of different colours and shades came out to perform and showcase the beauty of culture and tradition to the delight and excitement of the large audience at the expansive grounds of the Oore Palace.
Guests included the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, who expressed support for culture and tradition and the need for promotion.
Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Commissioner of Culture, Prof. Rasaki Ojo Bakare, appreciated the Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adeagbo, for being the custodian of the culture and tradition of Otun Moba people worldwide.
Oba Adeagbo, who used the occasion to pray for the prosperity of Otun Ekiti, Mobaland, Ekiti State and Nigeria in general, expressed great joy in seeing Otun Moba’s culture being celebrated and attracting the local, state and federal presence.
Oba Adeagbo said, “Our culture is our identity. If we do not know where we are coming from, we might not know where we are going. Our history as a community is a major determinant to the greatness of our future”.
The monarch thanked the Nigerian Guinness Plc for being a major partner in the vision.
Dignitaries at the grand finale of the 2025 Otun Egungun Festival included the Chairman of Moba Local Government, Hon Bamidele Fadugba; the Chairman, Ido Osi Local Government, Mr Bamidele Omoleye; the Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Amb. Wale Ojo Lanre; and a host of others.
They also included Prince Tafida from Kano Emirate; culture and tourism enthusiast, Omowale Ifamosun from Mexico; Mr Achibong from the Presidential Villa, Abuja; Mr Josey Adeoye from the United States of America; Wesco from Osun Ekiti; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Ekiti State; and the Area Commander, Nigerian Police.
