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A PDP Southwest ex-officio, Prince Adedipe Dauda Ewenla has called for greater accuracy in the historical representation of the Lisabi Festival, emphasizing that the cultural celebration predates its current organized format.
Ewenla made the remarks following his participation in the 39th Lisabi Festival 2026, held at the Alake Palace Square in Abeokuta.
In a statement, he said he was honoured to join the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, alongside other dignitaries, sons and daughters of Egba land, and cultural enthusiasts at what he described as a remarkable celebration of heritage and unity.
“The occasion was indeed a remarkable display of our rich heritage, unity, and the enduring legacy of Egbaland,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, Ewenla noted that the Lisabi Festival remains one of the most important cultural events among the Egba people, commemorating the legendary Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, whose leadership and bravery in the 18th century contributed to the liberation of the Egba people.
He explained that while the festival is currently in its 39th organized edition, the historical remembrance and cultural reverence of Lisabi extend far beyond that timeline.
“It is important to note that while the current organized format of the festival may be in its 39th edition, the Lisabi Festival itself is not merely a 39-year-old celebration. The cultural observance and traditional reverence of Lisabi date back over 100 years,” he stated.
Ewenla stressed that preserving this distinction is essential to maintaining historical accuracy, particularly in an era where digital records and social media documentation have long-term impact.
He expressed concern that some promoters of the festival, despite their efforts in promoting it globally, may not always present its historical timeline with precision.
While acknowledging the role of traditional institutions, Ewenla noted that the Alake of Egbaland, as custodian of Egba culture, alongside other respected royal lineages including those of Oba Sir Ladapo Ademola II, Oba Oyebade Lipede, and Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, play a critical role in ensuring that historical narratives are accurately preserved.
He added that while modernization and global promotion of the festival are commendable and beneficial for tourism and cultural visibility, such efforts should not compromise historical depth and authenticity.
According to him, Egba people both at home and in the diaspora have a responsibility to safeguard their cultural heritage and ensure accurate representation of their traditions.
“Social media does not forget, and the integrity of Egba history, including that of the Lisabi Festival, must be preserved with accuracy and pride,” he said.
Ewenla also commended Egba indigenes across Nigeria and in the diaspora for their continued support in promoting cultural festivals in Abeokuta, noting that their commitment is vital for sustaining the heritage for future generations.
As an Egba indigene from Abule Egba in Lagos, he congratulated all sons and daughters of Egbaland on the successful celebration of the 2026 Lisabi Festival.
“May our unity remain strong, and may our history continue to shine as a beacon for generations to come,” he added.
Ewenla also holds the titles of Balogun of Wasimi Abule Egba, Ajagunla of Ojokoro. Aremo Ijako Orile. Akinjagunla Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, among others.
