The Egba community in Abeokuta came together on Saturday at the Ake Palace grounds to conclude the 39th edition of the Lisabi Festival, bringing to an end a week-long cultural celebration that began on March 23.
The annual festival is held in honour of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary figure who led the Egba uprising against the Oyo Empire in the 18th century, ultimately securing their independence. Activities throughout the festival typically include traditional rites of homage, reenactments of historic battles, drumming, and vibrant dance processions.
Organised under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the event unites the major Egba divisions — Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu — in a celebration of shared heritage and cultural identity.
The grand finale featured the Egbaliganza showcase, a cultural fashion exhibition spearheaded by the Aare of Egbaland, Lai Labode. The initiative spotlights indigenous fashion and entrepreneurship, with coordinated outfits made from Abeokuta’s famous Adire fabric taking centre stage.
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Earlier, the Lisabi Festival Committee clarified that Egbaliganza is only a segment of the broader celebration, occupying a limited time slot and not altering the historical essence of the festival.
The event also served as a homecoming for Egba indigenes living abroad, attracting political figures, business leaders, and cultural stakeholders. Throughout the week, commercial activities surged across the city, while security was reinforced at major venues to ensure a smooth celebration.
