Lisabi festival committee denies fashion takeover claims
The Lisabi Festival Committee has firmly denied rumours that the upcoming 39th edition of the festival is being turned into a fashion event. Chief Rasheed Raji, chairman of the committee, clarified that the festival’s core purpose remains the celebration of the legendary Egba warrior, Lisabi Agbongbo Akala. The committee acknowledged the presence of the “Egbaliganza” fashion initiative but stressed that it is entirely separate from the main festival. They reiterated that the Lisabi Festival is a sacred annual homage to Egba heritage.
What we know
- The committee, led by Chief Rasheed Raji, refuted claims that the Lisabi Festival is now focused on the “Egbaliganza” fashion initiative.
- The 39th Lisabi Festival is scheduled to be held from March 23 to 29, 2026, with the grand finale on March 28 in Abeokuta.
- Only about two hours within the week-long programme are allocated for an honorary Egbaliganza showcase, not to overshadow the festival’s historical focus.
- The committee noted that recent promotional materials from Egbaliganza have contributed to public misconceptions about the festival’s direction.
- The festival remains dedicated to honouring Lisabi Agbongbo Akala and celebrating Egba liberation, not as a platform for fashion or commercial ventures.
