World Egungun Festival: Hon. Akande Celebrates Ibadan Masquerades as Sologo, Awowotan Oloje Clinch Second Place

The Executive Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, Hon. Kehinde Adeyemi Akande, has celebrated the strong outing of Ibadan masquerades at the World Egungun Festival, where Sologo and Awowotan Oloje emerged second in the grand finale held at Lekan Salami Stadium.

This development was confirmed in a press release signed by the Head of Information Unit, Oyekunbi Adediran, and made available to newsmen on Saturday.

Hon. Akande joined traditional leaders, cultural advocates, and residents to witness the colourful celebration, describing the impressive performance of the Ibadan Egungun as a proud moment for the local government and the entire city.

He noted that the Egungun Festival remains one of the strongest representations of Yoruba identity, as it portrays the history, beliefs, and deep cultural roots of the people.

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He added that the outing of Sologo and Awowotan Oloje, who stood out among several masquerades, shows the level of preparation and commitment among cultural custodians in Ibadan South West.

The hardworking chairman commended the organizers of the festival and those who continue to keep the tradition alive, stating that such efforts help to pass values from one generation to another.

He explained that beyond the celebration that characterized the day, events like this create room for young people to stay connected to their roots and also open doors for small businesses and local traders.

He stressed that culture should not be seen as old fashioned, as it still has a place in today’s society and can contribute to economic growth if properly supported.

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The council boss also used the moment to call for peaceful coexistence, urging residents and participants to continue to live together in unity and respect, which the festival itself represents.

The event featured music, traditional drumming, dances, and different Egungun displays that kept the crowd engaged from start to finish.

Sologo and Awowotan Oloje, who represented Ibadan South West and the Ibadan Parapo Egungun group, were rewarded with cash prizes and gold gifts for their applaudable performance.

Hon. Akande appreciated all stakeholders, including security agencies and organisers, for ensuring that the event went smoothly without any disturbance.

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He assured that his administration will continue to support cultural programmes that project the image of the people and preserve their heritage for generations to come.

In his remarks, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun, said culture must be taken seriously and encouraged everyone to give it the attention it deserves.

He also appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for his support for cultural development in the state, adding that the festival is on its way to becoming a bigger event with international recognition.

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