By Editor
The 2025 edition of the annual Ogbese Cultural Tourism Festival may have come and gone, but the memorable take-homes of the cultural event held on the serene banks of the Ogbese River on Tuesday April 8, 2025 at Ise-Ekiti may take a long time to wish away.
The unique carnival -like event was significant as it emphasized the nexus between tradition and spirituality.
The head of Oraye Quarters and presiding priest, Chief Omotunde Paul, in his excuisite traditional attire, offered prayers for the people of Ise-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and Nigeria at large making special supplication to God for the success of President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
The priest also extended heartfelt prayers to prominent sons and daughters of Ise-Ekiti holding top positions across Nigeria, as well as to the emerging stars and future leaders of the town.
The Ogbese Festival, traditionally celebrated by Chief Omotunde Paul, the Elemo (Oraye) of Ise Kingdom, is a core part of the Isese celebrations in Ekiti State. This year’s edition was a colorful showcase of traditional dance, music, and drumbeats that enthralled attendees and celebrated the richness of Ekiti’s cultural heritage.
Following the initial prayers at the riverbank, the festival procession moved to the palace of the Arinjale of Ise-Ekiti, where Chief Omotunde offered additional blessings for the monarch and the entire community. The festivities later culminated in a grand celebration at the Akodi of the Elemo, where guests were warmly received and treated to traditional delicacies and fresh palm wine in a convivial atmosphere.
The Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, led his team to the event and delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Governor Biodun Oyebanji. In his address, Ambassador Ojo-Lanre emphasized that the Ogbese Festival was far more than a cultural event—it is a sacred ceremony deeply rooted in tradition, fostering a spiritual connection between the people, their ancestors, and the revered Ogbese River. He described the festival as a profound invocation for blessings, peace, and communal prosperity.
He commended the organizers, traditional authorities, and cultural stakeholders for sustaining the relevance of the festival as a symbol of cultural tourism in Ekiti State. He further reiterated the Bureau’s unwavering commitment to leveraging such festivals for cultural preservation, economic development, international tourism, and community engagement. He encouraged all indigenes of Ise-Ekiti to remain steadfast in upholding and celebrating their cultural identity.
Chief Omotunde Paul, in his address, warmly welcomed Ambassador Ojo-Lanre and other dignitaries, expressing deep gratitude to Almighty God, Allah, and Eledumare for the grace to witness another edition of the festival. He noted that while every country has its unique traditions, the Ogbese Festival holds special significance for the people of Ise-Ekiti as a celebration of water—an element vital to life.
He explained that the festival serves as a spiritual reconnection with the Creator and the ancestors. Hosted annually by the Elemo family under his leadership, the celebration also honors the historical role of the Ogbese River, which provided refuge and protection during times of conflict in the Ise Kingdom. Notably, the festival is observed twice a year—in April (dry season) and in August (rainy season).
Ambassador Ojo-Lanre assured attendees of an even grander and more elaborate celebration in the August edition of the festival.
The event drew to a close with vibrant cultural displays, spirited traditional performances, and joyful merriment—leaving unforgettable memories for all present.
Dignitaries at the event included Hon. A. Ojo and Hon. Olu Faboya, both members of the Ekiti State Tourism Board. The festival attracted over a thousand guests, cultural enthusiasts, and adherents of African traditional religions.
