- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has on Saturday witness the colourful 2025 edition of the Eyo festival in Lagos.
Tinubu who had earlier this week arrived in the state for Christmas and new year celebration.
The President would at the weekend grace the historical festival held annually in Lagos Island.
Eyo festival, an ancient and traditional celebration is often held in honour of late prominent figures who are considered to have influenced and shaped the socio-political history of Lagos.
With this year’s edition held in honour of late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, General Mobolaji Johnson and Sir Michael Otedola, Tinubu had graced the event held at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Marina.
The President arrived at the event with the traditional white robe, akete hat, and wooden staff.
He was accompanied by the Lagos governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, State and Federal Government officials, and other prominent figures.
Tinubu alongside the dignatries witnessed the procession and colourful displayof the white garment-cladded Eyo masquerade.
Videos shared on X showed the masquerades’ appearance with their distinctive hats.
According to reports, the Eyo masquerade comprised of four ranks with the Adimu Eyo being the the most senior and spiritually significant in the hierarchy.
Adimu Eyo is often recongised with their black akete hats.
They only appear once all through the festival.
Next in line is the Laba Eyo.
They are one of the most prominent group and are easily identified with their red hats.
Laba Eyo are considered enforcers of the procession and are tasked with maintaining discipline and order.
Also noticeable in the ranking is the Oniko Eyo.
They are known for their yellow hats which traditionally associated with the raffia palm, a plant that holds cultural and economic significance in Yoruba communities.
Also on the ranks and files of the Eyo masquerade is Ologede Eyo.
They are the ones with green akete which symbolised the banana tree, a representation of growth, nourishment and continuity.
The last and most captivating group is the Agere Eyo.
The purple hats masquerade are renown for their dominant presence on account of their heights.
They often tower above the crowd and are considered favourites among spectators.