Queen (Barr.) Rasheedat Olayinka Ladoja, wife of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has thrown her weight behind the ongoing annual Egungun Festival in Ibadan, describing it as a timeless symbol of Yoruba cultural heritage, unity, and identity that must be preserved and celebrated in peace. The lawyer and royal consort stressed that the festival, which has endured from time immemorial, should serve to showcase Ibadan’s rich traditions rather than threaten public order.
Barrister Yinka Ladoja, however, urged all the masquerades, their followers and residents to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the celebrations, stressing that the festival should be an avenue for showcasing the rich cultural values of the Ibadan people rather than violence or disrupting public peace.
According to her, it is a well known fact that, Kabiyesi, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is a lover of peace who embraces all religions and their adherents, therefore, preservation of our cultural heritage should complement our harmonious relationship, mutual respect and development as a City and People.
Queen Rashidat Ladoja appealed to Parents, particularly mothers to prevail on their children on the need to always shun violence in the society, saying the children and youths of today would grow to be leaders tomorrow and contribute meaningfully to the development of Ibadanland and the country at large.
The annual Egungun Festival in Ibadan which usually attracts Ibadan indigenes, tourists and many culture enthusiasts, also serves as an event to showcase the rich customs, traditions and colourful display of Ibadan masquerades.
