The ancient town of Iba, nestled in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Osun State, is set to come alive as the Eburu of Ibaland, Oba Prof. Adekunle Adeogun Oyedeji II, prepares to host the fifth edition of the Oriki Yoruba Cultural Festival.
Scheduled to hold from December 12 to 14, 2024, the festival celebrates Yoruba heritage under the auspices of the Eburu Adekunle Yoruba Cultural Renaissance.
Since its inception in 2020, the Oriki Yoruba Cultural Festival has become a cornerstone for promoting the Yoruba race’s history, traditions, and values.
Oba Adeogun, a revered academic and cultural custodian, has consistently demonstrated his commitment to preserving the Yoruba legacy, particularly through the promotion of the traditional oral poetry known as Oriki.
Each year, Iba town becomes a hub for culture enthusiasts, historians, traditional rulers, poets, thespians, and journalists. The serene landscape of Iba, located between Inisa and Ikirun, provides a perfect backdrop for this annual celebration.
The festival offers a platform for both established and emerging poets and chanters to showcase their talents, ensuring that the Yoruba oral tradition remains vibrant and continues to inspire future generations.
Beyond cultural preservation, the festival also draws attention to the rich touristic appeal of Iba. Attendees are invited to explore the town’s natural beauty, including its mountains, lush flora, and diverse fauna.
The event kicks off with a Mountaineering Day on Friday, December 13, 2024, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Iba’s scenic landscape.
The festival’s intellectual highlight will be the annual lecture, scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Iyaniwura Palace in Iba.
This year’s lecture will be delivered by Prof. Olukoya Ogen, Director of the UNESCO-UNIOSUN Project on Cultural Diversity and Director of Innovation Management at Osun State University.
Prof. Ogen joins a prestigious list of past speakers, including Dr. Tunde Adegbola, Prof. Rom Kalilu, Prof. Siyan Oyefeso, Prof. Gbemi Adeoti, and Prof. Duro Adeleke.
Additionally, the festival will honoir veteran poet Pa Olatunbosun Oladapo, popularly known as “Odidere Ayekooto.”
He joins the ranks of celebrated honorees such as Pa Alabi Ogundepo (Ajobiewe), Baba Wande, Muraina Oyelami, Araba Yemi Elebuibon, and Kola Oyewo.
The Eburu of Ibaland, also the Pro-Chancellor of Atiba University, has extended an invitation to individuals and organizations worldwide to experience the warm hospitality of Iba and partake in this celebration of Yoruba heritage.
Guests are encouraged to arrive on Thursday, December 12, to fully engage in the festivities.
The Oriki Yoruba Cultural Festival promises an unforgettable blend of education, entertainment, and cultural pride, making Iba the go-to destination this Yuletide season.
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