The Egba people of Ogun State converged on the historic Ake Palace grounds in Abeokuta on Saturday for the grand finale of the 39th Lisabi Festival, bringing to a close a vibrant week-long celebration that kicked off on March 23.
The annual festival honours Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary Egba warrior who, in the 18th century, led a successful revolt against the Oyo Empire, securing independence and self-determination for his people.
Highlights of the event include traditional homage-paying rites, thrilling warrior-themed reenactments, pulsating drumming sessions, and colourful dance parades that showcase Egba heritage.
Under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the festival unites all Egba subgroups, Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu in a powerful display of unity, cultural pride, and shared identity.
Saturday’s grand finale featured the Egbaliganza, a colourful cultural fashion showcase championed by the Aare of Egbaland, Chief Lai Labode.
The initiative spotlights traditional Egba attire and promotes local enterprise, with coordinated outfits dominated by Abeokuta’s iconic Adire fabric taking centre stage.
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.
The occasion also served as a grand homecoming for Egba indigenes from the diaspora, drawing political leaders, prominent business figures, and cultural influencers.
Throughout the week, the city witnessed a surge in local trade and street activity, while security was beefed up around key venues to ensure a peaceful celebration.