Igbooye Kingdom in Lagos State has officially flagged off its 2026 Ẹ̀ẹ̀bi/Kilajolu Festival with the ceremonial outing of the revered Okoro Masquerade, signalling the commencement of the annual cultural celebration known for preserving indigenous heritage and community identity.
The festival began on March 29, 2026, with the colourful procession of the Okoro Masquerade, a central cultural symbol that embodies the spiritual and traditional authority of the kingdom. The outing drew residents and visitors as the masquerade moved through key parts of the community performing age-long rites that traditionally herald the start of festival activities.
As part of established customs, the masquerade paid a ceremonial visit to the palace of the Orijeru of Igbooye Kingdom, AbdulRasaq Akanni Musa, where important traditional rites were conducted to formally declare the festival open.
In the monarch’s absence, the delegation was received by top chiefs and community leaders, including Chief Joseph Oluwaranti Adebanjo, the Eleku of Igbooye; Chief Ariyo, the Baale of Erimope and Chairman of the Orijeru Council of Baales; Chief Toyin Songosanya, the Baale of Oriwu Village; Prince Sunday Keshinro, the Olori Omoba; and Chief Odunlami Iwapele, the Ajiroba of Igbooye Kingdom.
The traditional leaders performed the required rites and extended royal courtesies in line with longstanding customs, reinforcing the cultural significance of the festival within the community.
The Ẹ̀ẹ̀bi/Kilajolu Festival is one of the major traditional events in Igbooye Kingdom, celebrated annually to promote unity, cultural continuity and indigenous values among residents and descendants of the community.
Cultural stakeholders say the festival has continued to attract growing attention over the years, serving as a platform for showcasing local traditions, strengthening communal ties and boosting cultural tourism within the region.
With the formal commencement of activities, residents are expected to witness a series of traditional displays, rites and community engagements in the coming days, as the kingdom celebrates its rich heritage and identity.
Igbooye Launches 2026 Ẹ̀ẹ̀bi/Kilajolu Festival with Grand Okoro Masquerade Outing
