By Jimoh Ahmed
The ancient city of Owo came alive on Sunday, August 30, 2026, as the internationally acclaimed Igogo Festival officially commenced with the first Upeli Procession, heralding weeks of traditional ceremonies and cultural activities in the ancient Owo Kingdom.
The opening procession, which began at about 4:00 p.m., featured the Ughare Iloro (Iloro Chiefs) moving from Arigidi Uloro to Ugha Edunma at the Olowo’s Palace.
The colourful procession marked the formal commencement of the 2026 Igogo Festival, one of the most significant traditional celebrations in Owo, renowned for its distinctive rituals, royal ceremonies, cultural displays and communal activities.
According to the festival programme, the second Upeli Procession is scheduled for Thursday, September 3, while the third will hold on Monday, September 7, alongside other traditional activities.
The festival programme features a packed calendar of events extending through September 26.
Among the major activities are the Miss Oronshen Pageant, Uja Ugbama wrestling competition, Olowo’s Cup Football Competition Final, Ugbate Day, Epe games, Akoto games, Hairdo competition, and board and indoor games including Table Tennis, Scrabble, Monopoly and Chess.
A major highlight will be the Igogo celebration by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo, and the Iworo Chiefs, scheduled for Wednesday, September 16.
The celebration will feature Uru recitation and prayers, with the prayers scheduled for 9:00 p.m.
The preceding day, September 15, will feature an Igogo celebration by HRM Oba Kofoworola Oladoyin Arulinwo III, the Ojomo Oluda of Ijebu, Owo, and Quarter Chiefs.
The Igogo Ughore ceremonies by Oloris’ maidens and other women, known as Obete Day, will take place on Thursday, September 17.
The festival will enter its closing phase with the End of Igogo ceremonies at Ugha Edunma (Ugbagyaloke) on September 24, featuring Obajo, Alaja, Obgata and Olisagho.
The Ogwalopo ceremonies will subsequently be held at the Olowo’s Palace on Saturday, September 26.
Restrictions announced
As part of measures to preserve the sanctity and traditional practices of the festival, organisers have also announced restrictions on certain activities during the festival period.
The programme states that beating of drums and leather-making by individuals, groups, associations, churches and mosques within Owo township are prohibited from the stipulated date.
It also warns against women wearing caps (etu/fila) and headties (oja/gele) at close range to festival celebrants.
With the first Upeli procession successfully marking the beginning of the 2026 celebration, Owo has once again entered its traditional season of colour, culture and heritage.
The Igogo Festival will continue throughout September, bringing together the Olowo, traditional chiefs, royal households, women, youths and residents in a celebration that reflects the history and cultural identity of the Owo people.
The Pivot Online will continue to bring you updates, pictures and reports from the 2026 Igogo Festival.