Egba Indigenes Mark Grand Finale of 39th Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta

Egba indigenes on Saturday gathered at the Ake Palace grounds in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to mark the grand finale of the 39th Lisabi Festival, bringing an end to a week-long celebration that began on March 23.

The annual cultural festival is held in honour of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the revered warrior credited with leading the Egba uprising against the Oyo Empire in the 18th century, a resistance that secured the independence of the Egba people.

Over the years, the festival has evolved into a major cultural event featuring homage rites, historical reenactments, traditional drumming, and colourful dance performances that reflect the rich heritage of the Egba people.

Organised under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the celebration attracts participation from all Egba divisions, including Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu.

A notable highlight of the closing ceremony was the Egbaliganza segment, a fashion-oriented showcase led by the Aare of Egbaland, Chief Lai Labode, designed to promote indigenous fashion and local enterprise.

Attendees at the venue were dressed in coordinated outfits, with Adire fabric prominently displayed, while the event also drew Egba sons and daughters from the diaspora who returned home to participate in the festivities.

The grand finale attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including political figures, business leaders, entertainers, and cultural icons. The festival period also witnessed increased commercial activity and heightened movement across Abeokuta.