Ojude Oba – If your heart beats for unparalleled style, rich family legacies, and an explosion of pure, unadulterated glamour, then Ijebu Ode was undeniably the epicentre of the fashion universe today. Imagine a city ablaze with colour—every hue elevated to its most vibrant, its most magnificent—and you might just begin to grasp the sheer visual poetry that unfolded.
This annual celebration, traditionally held shortly after Eid al-Kabir, transcends mere sartorial display (though, of course, it delivers that in spades). It stands as a profound cultural landmark for the discerning people of Ijebu Ode—a magnificent confluence where history, cherished traditions, and bold personal expression converge into one spectacular, immersive event. At its very heart are the regberegbe, the esteemed age-grade groups, who arrive in impeccably coordinated ensembles to pay their profound homage to the town’s revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, the Awujale of Ijebuland.
And oh, how they arrived! This year’s contingents transformed the very streets into their personal runways. Some groups made their grand entrance on majestic horses, honouring a centuries-old equestrian tradition within their families, while others glided in with the deliberate grace of those stepping onto an haute couture red carpet.
The women, a vision of refined elegance, graced the occasion in exquisite buba and iro, meticulously crafted from luxurious lace, handwoven asooke, vibrant adire, opulent brocade, and regal damask. Yet, the true artistry lay in the styling: shoes were perfectly harmonized with towering geles, geles echoed the hues of designer purses, and purses complemented intricate jewellery. Some groups even showcased a breathtaking uniformity, with identical accessories, coordinated down to the most exquisite detail.
The men, equally commanding, followed suit. They presented themselves in elaborate agbada, rendered in a striking spectrum of bold, commanding colours. Their traditional caps sat with elegant precision, while strands of rich coral beads adorned necks, wrists, and ankles, adding an air of aristocratic charm. The walking stick, far from a mere utility, became the ultimate accessory of the moment, carried with an effortless swagger.
And just when you thought the spectacle couldn’t possibly ascend to greater heights of delight, the sunglasses made their grand appearance. Oversized and dramatic, vibrantly coloured, retro-chic, or sleekly sporty—you name the style, and someone was showcasing it with unparalleled confidence.
Suffice it to say, this year’s Ojude Oba was not just a fashion moment; it was a fashion phenomenon. And naturally, La Mode UK was there to capture every breathtaking detail of this extraordinary cultural and sartorial display.
Scroll down to soak in the best moments.
Photo Credits: The Jovial Photographer/Instagram
Photo Credits: Niyi Fagbemi/Instagram