Veteran juju musician Wale Thompson, widely known by his stage name Mr. Lalale Friday, has released a new single titled “Ijebu Homage” to honor and celebrate the cultural heritage of the Ijebu people. The release comes just days ahead of the 2025 edition of the iconic Ojude Oba festival, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural gatherings.
The song was officially released on Friday, May 30, and its music video premiered on YouTube the following morning, Saturday, May 31.
Wale Thompson explained that the new release is part of his enduring commitment to using music as a platform to preserve, promote, and celebrate Yoruba culture. According to him, “Ijebu Homage” is not merely a song but a cultural statement aimed at reinforcing a sense of identity and pride among the Ijebu people, particularly at a time when traditional values and heritage are increasingly being overshadowed by modern influences.
The musician described his inspiration for the song as deeply personal. As an indigene of Ijebuland, he noted that his roots have always been a driving force in his artistic journey.
He expressed his passion for highlighting the beauty of his cultural background and emphasized the importance of passing on these traditions to future generations. In a social media announcement accompanying the video release, Wale Thompson wrote, “Calling all Ijebu pride! As a true son of the great Ijebu land, I’m proud to share my latest music video ‘Ijebu Homage’. This song is a celebration of our rich culture and heritage, and I invite you all to join in showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of our culture to the world!”
The music video is a colorful and captivating portrayal of Ijebu traditions, featuring rich visuals that include scenes of traditional attire, royal processions, cultural dances, and horseback displays—elements that are closely associated with the grandeur of the Ojude Oba festival. Beyond the aesthetics, the video also serves as a tribute to prominent sons and daughters of Ijebuland who have made significant contributions in various fields.
Among the personalities acknowledged in the video are former Vice President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo; business magnate and telecoms billionaire, Mike Adenuga; former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel; real estate mogul, Olu Okeowo; Grammy-winning singer, Wizkid; world champion sprinter, Tobi Amusan; legendary fuji musician, K1 De Ultimate; iconic actress, Idowu Phillips, popularly known as Iya Rainbow; juju music veteran, Adewale Ayuba; award-winning rapper, Olamide; and renowned DJ, Jimmy Jatt.
In addition to honoring these public figures, Wale Thompson also extended special recognition to traditional rulers of Ijebuland, acknowledging their efforts in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region.
Among those mentioned are the Awujale of Ijebuland, the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, and the Akarigbo of Remo. The artist described these monarchs as custodians of tradition whose leadership continues to inspire cultural pride among the Ijebu people.
The release of “Ijebu Homage” comes in the lead-up to the 2025 Ojude Oba festival, which is scheduled to take place in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday, June 8. The Ojude Oba festival is an annual event that draws thousands of attendees from within Nigeria and abroad. It is a celebration deeply rooted in Ijebu history and identity, featuring elaborate parades, age-grade performances, equestrian displays, and homages paid to the Awujale, the paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
The festival not only promotes unity and cultural awareness but also serves as a platform for socio-economic and tourism development in Ogun State.
Wale Thompson’s latest project, therefore, arrives at a timely moment. By fusing music and cultural documentation, he continues a legacy of artists who use their craft to inspire community pride and cultural continuity. “Ijebu Homage” is more than a song; it is a reaffirmation of identity, a tribute to heritage, and a call to celebrate the values that make the Ijebu people unique. Through this musical offering, Wale Thompson reinforces his standing as a cultural ambassador and a vital voice in the preservation of Yoruba traditions.
