The 2025 edition of the world-acclaimed Igogo Festival in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, commences on Thursday, September 4, with the first Upeli procession by the Ughares (elders) of the ancient town’s Iloro Quarters.
The procession, which begins at 4:00 p.m., will take off from Arigidi, Iloro, and terminate at Ugha (court) Edunma of the Olowo’s palace, with the Ughares elegantly clad in white apparel and beads.
The second Upelu comes up on the night of Monday, September 8, while the third holds on Friday, September 12. The latter will feature the Ugbe Opa-soke and the commencement of Ayoyo by the Ugbamas (Youths), also from Arigidi to the Olowo’s palace.
Other scheduled events include preparations for Ugbagbo on September 15, as well as Uyanna and Utegin on September 16.
The climax of the festival will take place on September 20 with the Igogo Oghogede and the Ojomoluda of Ijebu-Owo, followed by the grand spectacle on September 21 when the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, will dance around the town in the traditional Igogo Olowo procession alongside the Iloro Chiefs.
Additional highlights include the finals of the 2025 Olowo’s Cup, traditional hair plaiting competitions, the popular Ayo game, and other cultural showcases.
The Igogo Festival, an age-long cultural heritage of the Owo people, has not only gained international recognition but also remains a potential foreign exchange earner if properly harnessed and package
