The Oboghoro Festival 2023, held from December 22nd to December 24th, was a vibrant and culturally rich event that brought together the community to celebrate its heritage, spirituality, and unity. The festival featured a diverse range of activities, including religious observances, traditional dances, an annual general meeting, and a spectacular carnival concert.
Day 1: Praise and Worship Day (December 22nd)
The festival kicked off on a spiritual note with the Praise and Worship Day. Honourable Micheal Diden, popularly known as Ejele, led the ministration, creating an atmosphere of gratitude and reflection. Various musical groups graced the stage including First Baptist Church at Ogidigben Escravos, contributing to a soul-stirring experience. Attendees took this opportunity to express their thanks to God for the year 2023 and collectively looked forward to a promising and blessed year ahead in 2024.
Day 2: Traditional and Cultural Dances (December 23rd)
The festivities continued on the second day with a showcase of traditional and cultural dances. Diverse groups from Itsekiri, Ijaw, Ilaje, and Urhobo communities presented captivating performances, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This day served as a testament to the festival’s commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Oboghoro community.
Day 3: Annual General Meeting and Oboghoro Carnival Concert (December 24th)
The third day of the festival commenced with the Annual General Meeting (AGM), a crucial community gathering. During the AGM, Hon. Dr. Godwin Toritseju Ebosa, the National Leader of Oboghoro Community, made a significant announcement. He declared the donation of free building materials, including blocks, tiles, and sand, for all indigenes interested in constructing houses within the community. This philanthropic gesture underscored the community’s dedication to supporting its residents in their endeavours.
Following the AGM, the festival reached its pinnacle with the Oboghoro Carnival Concert. The stage came alive with electrifying performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Flektaman Toritseju, Oritsefemi, 2Baba, Teni, D’Banj, Patoranking, Mayorkun, Harrysong, Victor Ad, Daddy Showkey, African China, Peter Ulu, Destalker, and Ushbebe. DJ Akaba skillfully curated the musical journey, ensuring that the carnival’s energy remained at its peak throughout the night.
Conclusion:
The Oboghoro Festival 2023 was a resounding success, seamlessly blending spiritual reflection, cultural celebration, and entertainment. The generosity displayed during the AGM and the unforgettable performances at the carnival created an atmosphere of unity, joy, and community pride. As the festival concluded, it left an indelible mark on the hearts of attendees, fostering a sense of togetherness and anticipation for future celebrations of Oboghoro’s rich cultural heritage.