The ancient rhythms of Yoruba spirituality and culture echoed through Ayandelu Kingdom in Epe Local Government as the community marked the grand finale of the annual Eebi Agemo Festival—a deeply rooted 15-day celebration of ancestral reverence, purification, and unity.
EpeInsights reports that this year’s festival, held in the Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Area, drew dignitaries from across Yorubaland, with royal fathers and cultural custodians attending in solidarity to affirm their commitment to preserving heritage.
At the heart of the celebration were the Agemo masquerades—revered spiritual entities in Yoruba cosmology that symbolize ancestral presence and divine guardianship.
Their appearance marked a sacred conclusion to the festival, believed to cleanse the land of malevolent forces and usher in blessings of peace and prosperity.
His Royal Majesty Oba Asunmo Aderibigbe, the Alayandelu of Ayandelu Kingdom, described the festival as more than tradition—it is a spiritual obligation.
“This festival is meant to purify our community, send away every evil, and bring progress to our people,” the monarch said. “We are proud to uphold this important part of our identity.”
This year’s Eebi Agemo Festival was further elevated by the presence of prominent Yoruba monarchs, including the newly elected President of the Yoruba Obas Forum, Oba (Dr.) Samuel O. Adeoye (JP), Edema I, the Molokun of Atijere Kingdom in Ondo State.
“Festivals like Eebi Agemo are vital to the survival of our cultural identity,” Oba Adeoye stated. “They connect us to our ancestors and remind us of our shared values.”
Other traditional rulers present included; Oba Nelson Ogunlari, the Olowu of Owu-Ikosi; Oba Elias Omoloran Adedapo, the Olota of Otta Kingdom; Oba Nureni Sikiru Odedina, the Oniladaba of Ladaba; Oba Adebowale Omola, the ruler of Odomola; The Aladeshonyin of Odo-Noforija .
These royal fathers joined in rituals, prayers, and cultural performances, demonstrating a shared commitment to Yoruba unity.
Local leaders echoed the monarchs’ sentiments. The Iyalode of Ayandelu praised the Alayandelu for maintaining the legacy of the ancestors, while the Balogun of Ayandelu emphasized the festival’s spiritual and communal impact: “Eebi is not just a celebration; it is a spiritual compass that strengthens our unity and identity.”
A youth representative highlighted the festival’s role in sustaining intergenerational bonds: “We are proud of our roots. This festival keeps our culture alive and ensures we do not forget where we come from.”
In a powerful gesture of devotion, Oba Aderibigbe made a pilgrimage to shrines across the town, paying homage to the guiding spirits of the land.
He expressed gratitude for the continued peace and progress attributed to the enduring power of traditional rites.
“We are seeing prosperity in Odo Ayandelu. The traditions of our forebears continue to work for us, and for that, we are thankful,” he said.
The Eebi Agemo Festival is one of many traditional observances that reaffirm Yoruba cosmology, spirituality, and communal values.
As Nigeria navigates modernization and globalization, such festivals serve as vital reminders of the country’s rich cultural inheritance.
