Lidero Celebration and Festival Day 2: Iwode Procession, Agemo Display, and Homage to Idado’s Heroes
Lidero Celebration and Festival Day 2: Iwode Procession, Agemo Display, and Homage to Idado’s Heroes
By:Bamgbose Adedamola
The LIDERO Celebration and Festival 2025 continued today in Idado with a vibrant display of tradition, reverence, and community spirit. Day 2 began with the sacred Lidero Rites at the Iledi Osugbo of the Idado Kingdom — a highly respected cultural space where the spiritual custodians of the community perform age-old rituals for peace, unity, and progress.
During the rites, the Olorisas, also known as the Sounbiraku Ile Alogbo women, took centre stage. Dressed in traditional regalia, they danced gracefully and performed rotational rites before His Royal Highness, Oba Musiliu Oriyomi Soile, the Radanuwa of Idado. The air was alive with drumming, chanting, and the rhythmic movement of dancers — a living testament to the community’s deep connection with the Lidero deity.
From there, the celebration transitioned into the Iwode — a grand rally around the town led by the King, the Olorisas, and the people of Idado. This procession saw the community moving through the streets on foot, stopping at notable locations to perform prayers and rites in a long-standing tradition known among the Yoruba as Kíko Ẹsẹ. Each stop paid homage to the houses of past kings, heroes, and prominent figures of Idado, honouring their memory and reaffirming their place in the living history of the land.
The day’s events concluded with the Ita Agemo at the Idado Palace. This final rite, steeped in ancestral reverence, further anchored the day’s activities in cultural meaning and spiritual significance. As the sun set, the palace grounds echoed with songs, drumbeats, and the shared joy of a community united in tradition.
The presence of the Agemo, a revered spiritual figure in Yoruba tradition, brought profound cultural and spiritual significance to the day’s events. Adorned in traditional attire, the Agemo moved with rhythmic grace, performing symbolic dances that drew the attention of all present. The intricate steps and gestures carried deep meaning, representing ancestral blessings, protection, and continuity for the Idado community.
Throughout the day, tradition, spirituality, and joy blended seamlessly. The palace grounds were vibrant with activity as elders, community leaders, and visitors exchanged greetings and shared stories of past celebrations. Drumming, chanting, and the lively performance of the Agemo kept the atmosphere charged with excitement, while spectators watched with admiration and reverence. The day not only honoured ancient customs but also strengthened the bond between generations, setting the stage for the celebrations yet to come.
With Day 2 complete, the LIDERO Festival continues to weave together faith, heritage, and togetherness — keeping alive the customs that have shaped Idado for generations. Tomorrow promises even more celebration as the festival enters its third day.
