In Ogbomoso, the second largest city in Oyo State, weekends often bring the sound of talking drums and the sight of families dressed in matching fabric. A Yoruba traditional engagement is a lively, structured event, with two masters of ceremony, called alaga, guiding the families through prostrations, prayers, gifts and plenty of teasing. Ogbomoso is home to the palace of the Soun, the town’s traditional ruler, and to a large university, so it combines old customs with a young population. Here is a guide for couples planning a wedding there.
Ogbomoso, the Soun and the engagement
Ogbomoso is in northern Oyo State. It is home to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, a major Baptist seminary and other institutions. The Soun of Ogbomoso is the town’s traditional ruler, and his palace is a landmark. Before the engagement, families often hold an introduction, a smaller meeting where the groom’s family formally presents itself.
The traditional engagement, known as idana or the engagement ceremony, is the main customary event. Two alaga lead proceedings, one for each family. The alaga iduro represents the groom’s side and the alaga ijoko the bride’s.
Prostration and the list
The groom and his friends prostrate before the bride’s family to show respect. The bride’s family provides a list of items, which may include yams, kola nuts, honey, fabrics and a Bible or Quran. The bride enters veiled, accompanied by friends, and must find her groom among his group. Families and friends wear matching aso ebi fabric, often bought in Ibadan or local markets.
Menus feature amala and ewedu, pounded yam, jollof rice and small chops. Talking drummers, fuji and juju bands keep the celebrations lively.
Venues and choosing your alaga
Event halls, hotels and family compounds host receptions in Ogbomoso. Ogbomoso has a long Baptist history, and many couples also hold church weddings. A good alaga can make or break the day. Watch videos of their past ceremonies, agree on fees in advance and tell them about any customs or jokes your family would rather avoid.
Ogbomoso lies on the road between Oyo and Ilorin, a few hours’ drive from Lagos. Most of an Ogbomoso engagement is the alaga talking: joking, praying and haggling on each family’s behalf. Guests usually leave quoting their lines.
