Ooni of Ife and 45 Monarchs Set to Recreate Ancient “Ita-Ajero” Heritage in Ekiti

The Ekiti State Government has officially recognized the Ita-Ajero Festival, a historic Yoruba cultural gathering scheduled to take place in Ijero-Ekiti on August 21, 2026.

The festival, which seeks to recreate an ancient diplomatic and spiritual tradition, will be headlined by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, alongside over 45 prominent traditional rulers from across Yorubaland.

The Historical Significance of Ita-Ajero

Unlike a typical social carnival, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, described the event as a “formidable cultural fiesta.”

The festival centers on an ancient practice where the descendants of Oduduwa converged at the palace of the Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti to deliberate on the future of the Yoruba people.

• The Ritual of Convergence: The monarchs sit in a ceremonial circle with the Ajero and the Ooni at the center.

• Symbolism of Authority: Each Oba is attended by an aide holding their staff of office, signifying the weight and legitimacy of the gathering.

• Spiritual Governance: The ceremony involves a series of prayers led by the participating traditional rulers, followed by the Ajero, and concluded by the Ooni of Ife.

Strategic Tourism and Governance Goals

The presentation of the Certificate of Recognition to the Ijero-Ekiti Kingdom aligns with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration policy to leverage cultural heritage for economic growth.

• Tourism Development: By formalizing the festival, the state aims to attract global interest in Yoruba history and oral tradition.

• Preserving Identity: The festival serves as an educational bridge, ensuring that younger generations understand the historical narratives and unifying structures of the Yoruba race.

• Regional Collaboration: The event provides a high-level platform for traditional leaders to discuss contemporary challenges, threats, and developmental opportunities facing Yorubaland.

Preparations for 2026

The 2026 edition is expected to be the most elaborate to date. Mrs. Fadeke Oguntuase, representing the Ijero-Ekiti community, confirmed that preparations are already in full swing to upgrade the festival’s scale.

The collaboration between the community and the Bureau of Tourism is designed to ensure that the “Kabiyesi Ajero,” Oba Joseph Adewole, can successfully host this significant assembly of royal fathers in a display of peak cultural excellence.