Upcoming Eyo Festival to honour ex-governor Otedola as devotees pay homage to Oba Akiolu
The Iga Iduganran Palace in Isale Eko, Lagos Island, was agog recently when stakeholders of the Adamu Orisa paid homage to the Oba of Lagos, His Imperial Majesty Rilwan Aremu Akiolu, ahead of the upcoming Eyo Festival scheduled for the 27th of December.
The Eyo Festival began in 1854 and is linked to the Adamu Orisa deity, one of the protective spirits of Eko, and is rooted in the traditions of Lagos Island.
A major feature of the festival is the procession of white-clad masquerades, known as Eyo, who carry opanbata (staffs) and parade through the city streets.
Historically, the Eyo Festival is not held annually, only on special occasions to honour departed kings, welcome distinguished guests, or commemorate important state events.
Speaking at his Iga Iduganran palace, Oba Akiolu revealed that the upcoming festival would be in honour of the former Governor of Lagos, the late Sir Michael Otedola.
The festival starts on Sunday, December 21st, with the traditional unveiling of the staff, a confirmation that the festival holds in a week’s time. During the exercise, the first-class Eyo Groups, known as Eyo Osa, showcase the staff to prominent individuals from Lagos Island and beyond.
Laba Ekun [Alakete Pupa] follows on Monday, Dec. 22nd. Oniko, Ologede and Angere are out on Tuesday 23rd, Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th, respectively.
Friday, 26th, is the Festival Eve [Aisun Eyo], which serves as a unification day and night for many Lagosians at home and in the diaspora.
A unique aspect of the tradition is the dress code observed by spectators; they are advised not to wear shoes or head ties or carry umbrellas, as these are considered disrespectful to the masqueraders.
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