Monarch begins seven-day seclusion, prays for peace, unity
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has urged Nigerian politicians to put the interest of the country above their political differences, saying Nigeria is bigger than any individual or political interest.
The monarch spoke on Sunday shortly before commencing a seven-day spiritual seclusion ahead of the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The annual seclusion is part of the traditional rites preceding the Olojo Festival, one of the major cultural celebrations associated with Ile-Ife and the Yoruba people.
The Ooni, who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, said his period in seclusion would be devoted to prayers for Nigeria, particularly for peace, unity and sustainable development.
“I am appealing to our politicians. They might have differences, but we should know ultimately that Nigeria is bigger than all of us,” the monarch said.
“It is very important for our political leaders to always look inwardly on how to better the lot of the average Nigerians.”
The Ooni urged political leaders to avoid words and actions capable of threatening national cohesion, reminding them that political power was temporary.
“Some have ruled this country before as political leaders, and others will come after them,” he said.
He said his prayers would also cover Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly as the country prepares for the next general elections.
The monarch commended President Bola Tinubu over what he described as non-interference in the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission, saying such a practice could strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
He also commended Osun residents for participating in the recently concluded governorship election, saying the outcome demonstrated the ability of citizens to determine their leaders through the ballot.
According to him, Nigerians should continue to have the opportunity to freely choose their leaders without actions capable of undermining the democratic process.
The Ooni’s seven-day seclusion, which began on Sunday evening, will also provide him with an opportunity to prepare spiritually for the sacred rites of the Olojo Festival and deepen his connection with the ancestors.
The exercise precedes the annual wearing of the sacred Aare Crown, one of the major highlights of the festival.
A statement by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, issued on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, said the seclusion marked the beginning of the spiritual phase of the 2026 Olojo Festival.
The festival celebrates Ile-Ife’s indigenous traditions and ancestral heritage and attracts traditional rulers, cultural enthusiasts, visitors and members of the Yoruba diaspora.
The public ceremonies are expected to follow the spiritual rites and culminate in the Ooni’s emergence in the sacred crown.
