By Alagunfon Rihanna
At exactly noon on Sunday, the ancient town of Saki echoed with the sounds of traditional drums and ceremonial gunshots as the 2026 Beere Festival officially commenced at the palace of the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi, drawing chiefs, cultural custodians, and residents into a grand celebration of heritage and royalty.
ITV Online Correspondent,Alagunfon Rihanna who was at the event reports that,the opening ceremony, held on May 10 and marked as Ibori Day as well as the first Ogidigbo Market Day of the festival calendar, showcased centuries-old traditions that underscored the cultural identity and historical pride of the people of Sakiland.
Activities began outside the palace with solemn traditional drumming in honour of past Okeres, creating a reflective atmosphere that attracted indigenes and visitors from across the town. The rhythmic performance, rich in symbolism and cultural expression, served as a tribute to departed monarchs who once occupied the revered throne.
The atmosphere later shifted into celebration as a symbolic 21-gun salute reverberated across the palace grounds, formally heralding the commencement of the annual Beere Festival. The salute, witnessed by a large gathering of chiefs, community leaders, and residents, highlighted the royal significance attached to the age-long festival.
Inside the palace courtyard, traditional drummers sustained the cultural tempo while members of the Okere-in-Council and other titled chiefs were in attendance in a display of loyalty and reverence to the Okere of Sakiland.
One of the most colourful moments of the event was the ceremonial entrance of the Iyalode Okere and other Iyalodes, who danced gracefully into the palace amidst chants and drumbeats. The women leaders offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and the continued reign of the monarch.
In keeping with longstanding tradition, the Iyalode presented a he-goat to Kabiyesi as part of the festival rites. The monarch subsequently handed the goat over to Chief Agoro Okere for the preparation of the traditional dinner to be served to members of the Okere-in-Council.
Speaking during the ceremony, Oba Khalid Olabisi offered royal prayers for the Iyalode and the people of Sakiland, while also seeking divine guidance for enduring peace, unity, and progress across the community.
The Beere Festival, regarded as one of the foremost cultural festivals in Saki, is expected to continue in the coming days with a series of traditional rites, cultural displays, and community engagements aimed at preserving the customs and heritage of the people.