By Emmanuel Kehinde, llorin,
The ancient and historic Epe Kingdom, nestled in the Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State, is abuzz with anticipation as the date for its most prestigious cultural event has been officially announced. July 12, 2026, has been declared as *D-Day* for the “Odun Oba Epe 2026” celebration, a grand festival dedicated to honoring the kingdom’s revered monarch, HRM Oba Oyebade Isaac Akinkuade Adenusi III, the Yangede of Epe Kingdom.
The announcement was made public by High Chief Adekunle Oyewole Akande, the Odunwo of Epe Kingdom, during a well-attended press conference held at the palace grounds today. The event drew a distinguished gathering of traditional chiefs, community leaders, and members of the press, all eager to hear the plans for what promises to be the most colourful edition of the festival yet.
Speaking with palpable enthusiasm, High Chief Akande emphasized the deep cultural significance of the “Odun Oba” (King’s Festival). He described it not merely as a celebration, but as a sacred tradition that reaffirms the bond between the monarch and his people.
“This celebration is the king’s festival,” High Chief Akande stated. “It belongs entirely to the monarch because he is the custodian of all the traditions, customs, and history connected with it. It is a time when the entire kingdom comes together to express pure joy, unity, and happiness. It is the heartbeat of our community.”
High Chief Akande took the opportunity to remind the public of Epe’s illustrious history. He declared that Epe is one of the most ancient towns in Yorubaland, possessing a lineage that rivals the historic city of Ile-Ife, the widely recognized cradle of the Yoruba race.
“Epe is as old as Ile-Ife itself,” he asserted. “While our ancestors migrated from an undisclosed location in the distant past, we have established a kingdom that is strong, proud, and deeply connected to its roots. Today, the town is a vibrant hub with multiple entry and exit points, welcoming visitors from far and wide.”
One of the most remarkable features of Epe, according to the High Chief, is its enduring atmosphere of peace. “One thing that is peculiar to Epe, and it is a fact you will hear from every visitor, is the atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that exists here at all times. It is not just a slogan; it is our way of life. This peace is the foundation upon which our progress is built.”
High Chief Akande explained that the core purpose of “Odun Oba Epe” extends far beyond entertainment. It is a strategic gathering designed to strengthen the social fabric of the community.
“The primary purpose is the gathering of love,” he said. “It is a period where the king and his subjects, the chiefs, and the entire community come together as one family. It is a time for the formal exchange of gifts between the king and his chiefs, and vice versa, which symbolizes mutual respect and loyalty. More importantly, this is a period where we set aside time to thoroughly discuss vital issues concerning the town’s development, infrastructure, and the well-being of our people.”
Promising a festival that will be “more colourful” than ever before, High Chief Akande revealed several new highlights for the 2026 edition. A major focus will be on the promotion of indigenous culture, particularly through fashion.
“This year, we are putting a special emphasis on our cultural heritage,” he announced. “The celebration will feature a grand parade and display of locally made fabrics, with a special spotlight on our magnificent Aso Oke. We want our people to wear their heritage with pride. To encourage this, we will be awarding special prizes to the best locally dressed man and woman during the festival.”
Other highlights of the day will include the traditional paying of homage to the king, the formal exchange of gifts, and vibrant cultural displays by local troupes. The celebration will reach its spiritual and social climax with an exclusive royal banquet, where the monarch will “dine and wine” with members of his immediate family in a private ceremony.
High Chief Akande took a moment to personally praise the paramount ruler, describing Oba Oyebade Isaac Akinkuade Adenusi III as a leader of exceptional character.
“Our king is straightforward, loving, kind, accommodating, and completely passionate about the development of Epe Kingdom,” he said. “His leadership has been a beacon of hope and progress for us all. This celebration is our way of showing our appreciation for his reign.”
The press conference was attended by a full contingent of the kingdom’s traditional council, including High Chiefs Isaac Aransipe (Odofin of Epe), Chief Adedokun Akande (Aogbo of Epe), Chief Awofemi Araba (Opotu of Epe), Chief Mrs. Akinlolu (Erelu of Epe), and Chief Temidayo (Odole of Epe). Other notable attendees included Chief Afolabi Lomate, Chief Lobosin Peter Matthew, Mrs. Adejo Eunice (Yeye Oge of Epe), Chief Mrs. Ibijoke Philip (Iyaloja Mobire), Chief Mrs. Bukola Olopade (Iyaloja Lomilogu), Chief Mrs. Mulikat Yusuf (Iyalaje of Epe), Prince Adekuoroye, and the Palace Secretary, Mr. Adejo Sunday.
With the date now fixed, the people of Epe Kingdom are making extensive preparations to welcome home their indigenes, invite distinguished guests, and host cultural troupes from across Yorubaland. The stage is set for a memorable edition of “Odun Oba Epe 2026″—a celebration of tradition, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Epe people.
