Eternal Steeze: The unapologetic fashion coup of Ojude Oba 2026

By Aderinola Abimbola

Ojude Oba Festival, an annual, world-renowned cultural and traditional festival held in Ijebu-Ode, has slowly positioned itself as the capital of contemporary African luxury.

From what was once regarded as a cultural dance, the festival now brings together distinguished indigenes from across the globe to pay homage to the Awujale of Ijebuland and celebrate Yoruba heritage.

The turnout of the 2026 edition of the festival was no surprise as the festival has now become a multi-billion-naira fashion week.

Here are some important highlights from the Ojude Oba festival 2026:

1. The anti-corset rebellion: The Nigerian Owambe scene, has, in recent years become dominated by choking fashion- The corset. A western structure that not only forces materials into non traditional shapes but also restricts movement and comfort. At the Ojude Oba, the Ijebu-Ode women staged a silent coup against the corset, proudly flaunting their loose fitting Buba and Iro which spoke in high volumes of style, culture, luxury and most importantly, comfort.

2. Face Jewelry; the global flex: Although traditional fabrics and styles were the main foundation of outfits at the 2026 edition of the Ojude Oba festival, there was undeniable fashion happening from the bridge of the nose upward. Attendees were seen not just shielding their eyes from the sun but also silently making statements with their eyewear. From $1,100 Louis Vuitton Millionaires to Dior 30 Montaignes, high-society aunties made one thing clear, they do not joke about their fashion.

3. Maverick Vanguard of steeze: Once again, socialite Farooq Oreagba stole the show, redefining the masculine paradigm of the festival. With other notable influencers like Samuel Banks, Akin Faminu and Farooq’s son, Jamal Oreagba, showcasing fashion imbedded in tradition, an undeniable statement was made; native attire can easily clear any Western bespoke suit in sheer presence. Fashion icon Farooq, did not opt for loud and muti-colored prints, instead, he showed up in a monochromatic piece, reclaiming the undisputed title of the king of steeze.

4. The command of colour: Colours at Ojude Oba festival is never an afterthought, it is a well thought out alignment of various Regberegbe groups, intentionally shifting the focus from individual vanity to collective power. We saw bold colours like deep, regal crimsons clashing against soft powder blues, shimmering golds paired with statement pink parasols and so many other unexpected color blockings.

The Ojude Oba festival made one thing loud and clear; the future of African luxury does not require a stamp of approval from European fashion houses. The influence of the Ojude Oba is also something that cannot be denied as many other regions are slowly but surely becoming more conscious of the importance of preserving tradition through fashion.