The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has begun a seven-day spiritual seclusion ahead of the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The monarch entered seclusion on Sunday evening, September 20, as part of the traditional rites preceding the annual festival.
According to the Ooni’s Palace, Ogunwusi will devote the period to prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity and sustainable progress while preparing spiritually for the sacred rites associated with Olojo.
Speaking shortly before entering seclusion, the Ooni urged political leaders to place the interests of Nigerians and the country above political differences.
“I am appealing to our politicians. They might have differences, but we should know ultimately that Nigeria is bigger than all of us,” he said.
The monarch urged leaders to focus on improving the welfare of ordinary citizens and warned against actions or statements capable of threatening national cohesion.
He also reminded political leaders that political power is temporary.
“Some have ruled this country before as political leaders, and others will come after them,” Ogunwusi said.
The Ooni said his prayers would also cover Nigeria’s democratic process as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
He commended residents of Osun State for participating in the August 15 governorship election, saying the electoral process should continue to give citizens the opportunity to freely choose their leaders.
Ogunwusi also commended President Bola Tinubu over what he described as non-interference in the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission, saying such conduct could strengthen public confidence in democracy.
Beyond his national message, the Ooni said the seven-day seclusion would allow him to deepen his spiritual connection with his ancestors and prepare for the sacred ceremonies of Olojo.
The period is traditionally linked to preparations for the Ooni’s emergence in the sacred Aare Crown during the festival’s major rites.
The 2026 Olojo Festival’s main programme is scheduled for September 24 to 28 in Ile-Ife.
The programme includes traditional games, cultural exhibitions, community activities, processions and royal ceremonies, with the Aare Cultural Procession among the key events scheduled for September 26.
Olojo remains one of Ile-Ife’s major cultural celebrations, providing a platform for the preservation of indigenous traditions, ancestral heritage and Yoruba cultural identity.
The festival also attracts visitors, traditional rulers, cultural enthusiasts and members of the Yoruba diaspora, creating opportunities for tourism and local businesses in hospitality, transportation, food, fashion and crafts.
With the Ooni now in seclusion, the 2026 Olojo Festival has entered its principal spiritual phase ahead of the public ceremonies later in the week.
