The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, a prominent monarch in South-West Nigeria, has urged Nigerians to remain patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration as the country faces economic challenges. The Ooni made this appeal in a statement released ahead of his upcoming seven-day period of seclusion, during which he will engage in prayers and spiritual communion with the ancestors.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi acknowledged the hardships many Nigerians are currently experiencing, describing this period as a difficult test for the nation. He noted that his seclusion, part of traditional rites, is the most sacred time of his kingship. During this week-long seclusion, the Ooni said he would be seeking divine intervention for the well-being of Nigeria, especially in light of the current economic challenges.
Olafare’s statement explained that the monarch would pray for the people of Nigeria, the Yoruba race (referred to as the Oduduwa race), and humanity as a whole. The Ooni expressed his concern about the economic situation, saying, “This time around, I want to pray and seek for the face of our Creator to intervene on the current economic situation.” He acknowledged that life has been difficult for many, particularly the youth, and urged patience to avoid self-destruction.
The Ooni reassured Nigerians that, despite the present difficulties, he is hopeful that after the upcoming festival, normalcy will return, and the challenges the country is facing will come to an end.
He also called on the Tinubu administration to do more for the people, urging the government to deliver greater benefits of democracy to the citizens. The Ooni emphasized that leaders must prioritize the well-being of the populace during this time of economic hardship.
The statement highlighted that the seclusion is a preparation for the annual Olojo festival, a significant event in the Yoruba culture. During this period, the Ooni withdraws from human distractions to focus on spiritual reflection, silence, and divine communication with the spirits.
He offers solemn prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the Yoruba people and the entire nation, seeking peace, prosperity, protection, and guidance. It is a time of deep intercession for the collective well-being of Nigeria.
The Ooni is set to mark the 9th edition of the Olojo festival on Saturday, 28th September. As part of the festival, he will appear publicly wearing the sacred Crown of Oduduwa, known as ‘Ade Are,’ which is worn only once a year to honor the first day of mankind.
Olafare noted that this festival holds great spiritual significance for the Ooni, as it symbolizes the connection between the ancestors and the present generation.
