PICTORIAL: Maiden Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival Ends in a Spectacle of Color, Culture, and Unity
The historic city of Ogbomoso burst into life as the inaugural Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival concluded with a grand finale on Monday, December 23, 2024. Spanning five days from Thursday, December 19, the event celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Ogbomosoland, leaving an indelible mark on attendees and participants alike.
The Soun Ogunlola Stadium, which hosted the grand finale, was a dazzling showcase of tradition, with various social groups and associations donning vibrant Ofi attires and Ankara fabrics. The resulting kaleidoscope of colors highlighted the city’s cultural richness.
The event featured enthralling performances by Fuji legends Alhaji Ramoni Akanni RK1 and Saheed Akorede (popularly known as Osupa), as well as mesmerizing displays from the Oyo State Cultural Troupe and traditional masquerades. Audiences, both on-site and virtual, were captivated by these spectacular showcases, solidifying the carnival as a monumental celebration of Ogbomoso’s cultural legacy.
In his address, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), expressed his joy at the event’s success. He praised the organizers and participants for their efforts in preserving and promoting the city’s cultural heritage, underscoring its role in fostering economic growth and unity.
Carnival planning committee chairman, Mr. Williams Adeleye, echoed this sentiment, saying:
“Our culture is not just a reflection of our past but a guide to our future. This carnival celebrates our uniqueness while promoting shared values of love, unity, respect, and compassion.”
Throughout the carnival, Ogbomoso’s traditions were vibrantly displayed in activities ranging from traditional dances and music to sporting contests and culinary exhibitions. These events bridged generations, reaffirming the city’s status as a cradle of Yoruba civilization.
Prominent guests, including the Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Dokun Abolarin, graced the occasion. The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, commended Oba Ghandi for his visionary leadership, describing the carnival as a unifying and economically beneficial initiative.
“This event demonstrates that our revered monarch is committed to advancing Ogbomosoland,” Iba Adams said, acknowledging the role of traditional rulers and stakeholders in supporting the carnival.
Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, lauded the festival as groundbreaking. He emphasized its potential to place Ogbomosoland on the global cultural map while driving economic and developmental progress.
“This initiative not only unites our people but also highlights our heritage to the world. Future editions will undoubtedly be even more spectacular,” Hon. Olatubosun stated, urging increased stakeholder support for the monarch’s vision.
Other dignitaries, including Senator Abdulfatai Buhari and Hon. Olamiju Ayodeji Alao Akala, praised the carnival’s success and pledged ongoing support for the event and other developmental projects.
Traditional rulers, High Chiefs, and over 50 social clubs and associations from Ogbomosoland and the diaspora paid homage to Oba Ghandi. Their participation underscored the carnival’s triumph as a beacon of cultural pride and unity.
