The 2025 edition of Odun Omo Owu, the grand annual celebration of Owu heritage, commenced today, October 15, 2025, at the majestic Olowu Palace, Oke-Ago Owu, Abeokuta, with a spectacular display of traditional dance, music, and cultural artistry that reaffirmed Owu Kingdom’s rich legacy.
🎉 Culture in Full Glory! — Odun Omo Owu 2025 Bursts Into Color as Daps Dance Company, Owu Kurere Shine at the Opening Cultural Competition
The event opened with a cultural competition featuring 14 townships under Owu Kingdom, showcasing the unique rhythm, attire, and folklore that make Owu’s cultural identity deeply revered across Yorubaland.
The participating townships included:
Owu Ogbeni, Owu Totoro, Owu Isin, Daps Dance Company, Obaloyan, Owu Sokori, Owu Kurere, Owu Amukankan, Owu Igosun, Owu Ikosi, Owu Gbawonjo, Owu Oluyalo, Orile Owu, and Owu Ayetoro.
One of the highlights of the day was the electrifying performance by Daps Dance Company, whose energetic choreography and rich cultural storytelling captivated the audience, including the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, Otileta VII, his royal chiefs, and the proud sons and daughters of Owu land.
After a keenly contested display, Daps Dance Company emerged as first place winner in the children’s category, while Obaloyan secured second position. In the adults’ professional category, Owu Kurere clinched the first position, and Owu Amukankan was awarded second place.
The winners were announced by the Head of the Panel of Judges alongside the Government Representative, Comrade Olufemi Osanyinpeju, the Director of Culture, Ogun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, who commended the creativity, discipline, and cultural pride exhibited by all participating groups.
Representing the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, the Chairman of the Odun Omo Owu 2025 Planning Committee, Professor Moruf Lanrewaju Adelekan, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all participants, judges, and attendees for making the event a resounding success.
In his remarks, Prof. Adelekan said:
> “Odun Omo Owu is not just a festival — it is a living testimony of who we are as a people. I deeply appreciate everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring today’s event to life — our performers, judges, cultural leaders, and especially the youths who continue to preserve our traditions with pride and passion. This is only the beginning. The celebration continues across other Owu townships until October 25, with more competitions and festivities lined up.”
He further emphasized the significance of the festival as a unifying platform for all Owu descendants, home and abroad, to reconnect with their heritage, foster cultural education among the youth, and celebrate the contributions of Owu people to the larger Yoruba civilization.
As the drums rolled, the dancers swayed, and the palace grounds glowed with colorful attire and royal splendor, one message resonated across the crowd — Owu remains proud, united, and culturally vibrant.
The Odun Omo Owu 2025 festivities will continue in various townships across Owu Kingdom, culminating in the grand finale on October 25, where winners will receive their prizes amidst royal entertainment, community honors, and cultural exhibitions.
0 Comments