By Mojisola Oladele
Nigerians across all walks of life have converged on the Ooni of Ife’s Palace to celebrate the annual Olojo Festival.
The main thrust of the gathering is the need to promote and protect the Yoruba tradition.
Speaking during the event, Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, reiterated his commitment towards promotion and sustenance of culture and tourism to boost the state’s economy.
The Osun helmsman appealed to politicians in the state to prioritise the development of the state above party affiliation and personal interest.
In an interview with Radio Nigeria, President, Yoruba Council Worldwide, Aare Hassan Oladotun described Olojo Festival as an event which celebrates the aesthetic cultural heritage of Yorubaland and the Ooni of Ife as apex Monarch in Yorubaland.
Aare Oladotun stressed the value of the ‘omoluabi’ ethos, and urged Yorubas worldwide to embrace it.
Former member representing Ife Federal Constituency in the House of Reps, Mr. Rotimi Makinde, said the Festival was not just historic, but also one of the greatest events in Yorubaland.
According to him, the Ooni would wear the sacred beaded crown weighing over 50 kg, and it is believed that pointing or looking at it attracts answers to prayers.
Meanwhile, the Oni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, yesterday night ended his seven-day seclusion, marking a significant moment in this year’s Olojo Festival.
Emerging from the private retreat, Oba Ogunwusi, said he spent the period of isolation for intense supplication for the unity and progress of the nation.
Dignitaries at the event included High Chiefs of Ile – ife, lawmaker representing Osun Central Senatorial District, Mr.Olubiyi Fadeyi, former National Secretary of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Otunba Iyiola Omisore, Mr Akin Ogunbiyi, State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Bankole Ojo, Member representing Ife East State Constituency, Mr.Olumide Fatunmise and community associations.
