Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday formally received the Opambata, the sacred ceremonial staff of the Eyo masquerade, signalling the commencement of activities for the Adamu Orisa Play 2025 in Lagos.
The presentation took place at Lagos House, Marina, during a homage visit by families of prominent personalities to be honoured at this year’s Eyo Festival.
Those listed for honour include the late Iyaloja-General, Chief Abibat Mogaji, mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the first Military Governor of Lagos State, General Mobolaji Johnson; the first civilian governor of the state, Alhaja Lateef Jakande; and a former Third Republic governor, Sir Michael Otedola.
The ceremony, tagged Ijade Opa Eyo, featured traditional Adimu Orisa songs, prayers and cultural performances. The colourful procession was led by the Olori Eyo and Akinsiku of Lagos, Chief Adebola Dosunmu, alongside other traditional adherents bearing their Opambata.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the ritual officially marked the beginning of activities ahead of the Adamu Orisa Play, scheduled to hold on Saturday, December 27, 2025. He offered prayers for a peaceful and successful festival.
Describing the Eyo Festival as a strong symbol of identity and continuity, the governor said it reflects Lagos’ rich cultural heritage, warning that societies which neglect their culture risk losing relevance.
“The Eyo Festival holding on Saturday will be a day of joy and pride for Lagos. It will be colourful and joyous, showcasing the depth of our cultural heritage to both local and international audiences,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He added that Lagos is not only Nigeria’s commercial and economic hub but also a melting point of culture and tourism, noting that the symbolic black-and-white attire worn by participants represented unity, peace and progress.
The governor also commended the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for championing the return of the Eyo Festival in 2025 after an eight-year hiatus.
Earlier, the Olori Eyo, Chief Adebola Dosunmu, explained that Ijade Opa Eyo is one of several preparatory rites leading to the main festival. He said the procession formally confirms the certainty of the forthcoming Eyo celebration.
According to him, the traditional outing includes visits to family houses, traditional palaces, the Oba’s Palace, the governor’s residence and other significant locations, including a homage visit to the President’s residence.
Dosunmu also outlined key cultural guidelines for the festival, including restrictions on footwear, caps and scarves, and a prohibition on photographing sacred Orishas, while allowing pictures of the Eyo masquerades. He stressed that culture predates modern religions and remains an inherited identity passed down through generations.