Lidero Festival Day 4: Christian Association Nigeria Fellowship Leads Morning Prayers; Egungun Festival Dazzles at Idado Palace
Lidero Festival Day 4: Christian Association Nigeria Fellowship Leads Morning Prayers; Egungun Festival Dazzles at Idado Palace
Day 4 of the ongoing Lidero Festival was marked by a meaningful blend of Christian thanksgiving and vibrant cultural celebration at the palace of Oba Musiliu Oriyomi Soile, the Idado King. The day drew members of the Idado Community and the Christian Fellowship, who gathered to honour tradition and faith.
The morning commenced with a special prayer session led by Pastor Prophetess Wunmi Babatunde (popularly known as Wunmi Blessing), Director of Legal Issues at Sagamu Local Government; Reverend Benjamin Ogundoju Femi, the LG Accounts Chairman; and Rev. Father Oduntan, who commended the king for his significant contributions to community development.
In his address, Oba Soile expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Akarigbo of Remoland and the state governor for their roles in his elevation to first-class status, an announcement that was met with joyous applause from women in attendance. Reverend Ogundoju also introduced Reverend Oluwole and named Reverend Oduntan as the new LG chairman, while Otunba Lekimo formally presented the king and his chiefs to the assembled women and guests.
The Christian Fellowship played a key role in the celebrations, offering prayers and blessings for the continued peace, progress, and unity of the Idado Community. The monarch also revealed plans to visit the local prison the following day, accompanied by the pastors present, to offer support to inmates. The morning prayer session concluded with a closing blessing by Reverend Ogundoju.
As the day progressed, the palace grounds transformed into a spectacular scene of cultural heritage with the Masquerade Festival. Masquerades such as Ajobata, Akomojo, and Janduku captivated the crowd with elaborate dances, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic drumming. The highlight was the grand procession of Egungun masquerades, each representing distinct ancestral spirits and cultural significance.
Adorned in intricate masks and flowing fabrics, the masquerades danced through the crowd, engaging and entertaining spectators. Oba Soile, resplendent in royal regalia, watched with evident delight as the performances unfolded, reinforcing the Egungun Festival’s important role as a living link to Yoruba heritage.
The day closed on a note of unity and cultural pride for the Idado Community and the Christian Fellowship, as anticipation builds for the much-anticipated Day 5 of the Lidero Festival
