The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) senatorial candidate for Oyo Central, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, and a party stalwart in the district, Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi, popularly known as AROSAD, on Saturday joined traditional rulers, political leaders, cultural enthusiasts and residents at the 2026 Eyeba and Siaba Egungun Festival in Oyagbe, Oyo Town.

The annual festival, hosted by Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa, celebrated the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Yoruba people under the theme, “Bibo Gbogbo Orisa.” The event featured the veneration of Yoruba deities, including Sango, Ogun, Osun and other Orisa revered across Yorubaland.

Held at Oke-Olola Grammar School, Oyagbe, the festival attracted participants from within and outside Oyo State. Colourful masquerade displays, traditional drumming, cultural dances and prayers for peace, prosperity and unity highlighted the celebration.

Popular Fuji musician, Alhaji Taiwo Akande Adebisi, popularly known as Taye Currency, entertained guests with lively performances throughout the event.

Speaking with journalists, Ajadi described the Egungun Festival as a symbol of Yoruba identity and called on governments at all levels to prioritise the preservation and promotion of indigenous cultural heritage.

“Our culture is our identity. Festivals like this remind us of where we come from and the values that have kept our communities united for generations. We must continue to preserve these traditions because they promote peace, tourism, economic opportunities and cultural education for younger generations,” he said.

Ajadi commended Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa for sustaining the festival and preserving Yoruba customs for future generations.

“I congratulate Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa and every stakeholder who has continued to keep this cultural institution alive. Their commitment deserves recognition because cultural festivals strengthen social cohesion and attract visitors who contribute to the local economy,” he added.

The APM senatorial hopeful also pledged continued support for initiatives that promote cultural tourism, youth engagement and community development across Oyo Central.

“As leaders, we have a responsibility to support programmes that preserve our heritage while creating opportunities for our people. Culture should not only be celebrated; it should also become a source of economic empowerment through tourism, creative arts and local enterprise,” Ajadi said.

AROSAD also praised the organisers, describing the festival as a reflection of the unity and resilience of the Yoruba people. He urged young people to embrace their cultural heritage while pursuing education and innovation, noting that preserving tradition complements modern development.

Host of the event, Iyalode Ayoke Olorisa, thanked political leaders, traditional worshippers, community members and visitors for attending, describing the annual festival as a platform for promoting peace, unity and respect for Yoruba customs.

She said the Eyeba and Siaba Festival has continued to grow through the collective commitment of devotees and community leaders to preserving the spiritual and cultural values of the Yoruba people.

The festival featured masquerade processions, traditional rites, cultural performances, prayers, music and goodwill messages, reinforcing its status as one of Oyo Town’s major cultural events. Observers said the presence of Ajadi, AROSAD and other political leaders reflected growing support for the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage and community-based festivals across Oyo State.