Traditional rulers across Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have explained the cancellation of the 2026 Ojude Oba celebrations in their respective communities following the death of the late Omola of Odomola, Oba Adeshina Sulaimon Adebowale.
Epe Insights reports that the decision was reached by monarchs and community leaders as a mark of honour and respect for the late royal father, whose passing has drawn widespread reactions across Eredo LCDA and the wider Epe Division.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja described the late monarch as a respected custodian of culture, tradition, and community values.
He said the demise of Oba Adebowale came as a painful shock to many residents and traditional institutions within Eredo and neighbouring communities.
According to the monarch, the annual Ojude Oba celebrations, usually held during the Ileya festivities, were suspended to allow communities to observe a period of sober reflection in honour of the departed king.
Oba Ogunlaja explained that while monarchs do not mourn in the conventional manner, setting aside celebrations remains one of the highest forms of respect that can be accorded to a fellow royal father.
He noted that the decision reflected the collective desire of traditional rulers to demonstrate solidarity, empathy, and honour for their late colleague.
The monarch stressed that preserving the dignity of royal institutions and maintaining respect for traditional customs were key considerations behind the cancellation.
He further stated that the move was unanimously supported by several communities across Eredo LCDA despite the significance of the annual cultural event.
Oba Ogunlaja disclosed that many individuals, social groups, and community associations had already invested substantial resources into preparations for the celebrations before the decision was taken.
According to him, some participants had spent millions of naira on logistics, entertainment, attire, and other arrangements ahead of the festivities.
Despite the financial commitments, he said the monarchs agreed that paying tribute to the late Omola of Odomola was more important than proceeding with celebrations.
The royal father emphasized that no amount of preparation or expenditure could outweigh the need to honour a monarch who dedicated his life to serving his people and preserving cultural heritage.
He added that the decision demonstrated the enduring values of unity, mutual respect, and communal responsibility that exist among traditional rulers in Eredo LCDA.
Community leaders and residents have also expressed support for the cancellation, describing it as a fitting gesture for a monarch whose reign impacted many lives.
Observers noted that the suspension of the celebrations highlights the strong bond among traditional institutions across the Epe Division.
The monarchs reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, cultural preservation, and unity within their communities while continuing to uphold the customs and traditions passed down through generations.
They also urged residents to use the period to reflect on the legacy of the late Oba Adebowale and the importance of strengthening communal harmony.
As preparations for the Ileya season continue, communities across Eredo LCDA are expected to observe the period with restraint while honouring the memory of the departed royal father.
The traditional rulers concluded that the decision was not only a mark of mourning but also a demonstration of the respect accorded to the throne and the enduring values of the Yoruba traditional institution.
