The city of Abeokuta came alive with colour, culture, and celebration on Saturday as the Egba people marked the grand finale of the 39th Lisabi Festival, bringing to an end a week-long event that began on March 23.
The annual festival, held at the historic Ake Palace grounds in Abeokuta, Ogun State, drew Egba indigenes, dignitaries, and visitors who gathered to honour Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary 18th century warrior known for leading a revolt against the Oyo Empire and securing independence for his people. The celebration featured homage I paying rites, reenactments, drumming, and vibrant dance performances that highlighted Egba heritage.
Organised under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the festival brought together all Egba subgroups, Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu, in a symbolic show of unity, cultural pride, and shared identity. The atmosphere reflected a deep connection with asto tradition, reinforced through coordinated activities and community participation.
A major highlight of the grand finale was the Egbaliganza, a cultural fashion showcase championed by the Aare of Egbaland, Chief Lai Labode. The initiative placed a spotlight on traditional Egba attire while promoting local enterprise, with Abeokuta’s iconic Adire fabric dominating the displays.
The Lisabi Festival Committee had earlier clarified in February that “Egbaliganza is limited to a two hour slot within the week-long programme and does not alter the festival’s core historical focus.”
Beyond the cultural festivities, the event also served as a homecoming for Egba indigenes in the diaspora, attracting political leaders, business figures, and cultural influencers. The influx of attendees contributed to increased commercial activity across the city, with a noticeable rise in street trade throughout the week.
Security presence was heightened across major venues to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration, as the festival once again underscored its significance as a unifying cultural event rooted in history and identity.
Ademide Adebayo
