The city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, came alive as top Fuji music stars and cultural icons, including King Sule Alao Malaika, Shefiu Alao, and Alayo Melody Singer, graced the grand celebration of the Omoluabi Festival.
The festival, organized by Princess Adegoke Somoye, popularly known as Ewaede, showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people while promoting the core values of integrity, hard work, and good character, which define the Omoluabi concept.
The event drew a large crowd of cultural enthusiasts, traditional rulers, political figures, and notable personalities from across Ogun State and beyond.
Attendees were thrilled by energetic musical performances from the Fuji maestros, who lit up the stage with electrifying renditions of popular hits that kept the audience entertained.
The festival, which featured speeches, and the presentation of awards, drew prominent traditional rulers, cultural advocates, political leaders, and community stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Amona Baaroyin of Egbaland, Chief Tajudeen Oladehinde, highlighted the essence of being an Omoluabi.
He likened the Omoluabi concept to the biblical Ten Commandments, describing it as the foundation of moral behaviour in society.
“The best part of any human being, regardless of race, is being an Omoluabi. It represents behaviour and actions that conform to the norms and values of society,” he said.
Chief Oladehinde emphasized that being an Omoluabi is not limited to favourable situations but is a reflection of one’s conduct at all times.
“Goodness is not limited to when you are in a favourable position. No matter your status, you must always be an upright person. This is the essence of Omoluabi,” he noted.
In his address, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, who was also in attendance described an Omoluabi as a person of impeccable character who lives according to the expectations of Olodumare (God).
“An Omoluabi is someone without blemish, someone who stands firm on what they believe in, no matter the circumstances. Religion is part of culture, and once you forget your identity, you forget your race. This is why I am in full support of what Ewaede is doing,” the Speaker declared.
Highlight of the festival was the presentation of the Omoluabi Awards to distinguished personalities who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to good character and integrity.
Among the awardees were filmmaker Alagba Tunde Kelani, Enilolobo Oluwalogbon, businessman Alhaji Ibrahim Egungbohun, Chief Ayo Biobaku, and Mr. Sola Egbesola.
Two posthumous awards were presented in honour of Late Chief Mrs. Alaba Lawson and Late Alhaji Fatai Gbemisola, recognizing their lasting contributions to society and their embodiment of Omoluabi values.
Speaking after receiving his award, Tunde Kelani reflected on the broader meaning of Omoluabi.
“To be an Omoluabi means to embody the ideals of good character, integrity, and responsible living. It is not just about individual behaviour but about promoting harmony, accountability, and the collective well-being of the community,” he said.
Kilani emphasized the need to nurture the Omoluabi concept in the younger generation, calling for the introduction of programs to instill these values in children.
“We still have a lot of work to do. Our culture must not fade away. We must organize programs for young people and give them the title of Omoluabi as a badge of honour,” he advised.
Meanwhile, Princess Adegoke Somoye, the convener of the festival, expressed joy at the success of the event and its role in reinforcing Yoruba cultural values.
“Omoluabi Festival is about celebrating diligence, integrity, and hard work. In a society where money is elevated above good character, it is important to celebrate those who still believe in hard work and consistency,” she said.
She revealed that selecting the 16 awardees was a challenging task due to the high number of deserving individuals.
“It was a difficult task to come up with 16 names. But we believe that by showcasing these individuals, we are reminding society of the value of integrity,” she added.
She stressed that wealth should not compromise one’s values. “You can be wealthy and still protect your Omoluabi. Your name is important, and whatever decision you make, you must protect your name,” she said.
