The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has begun a seven-day spiritual retreat in preparation for the grand finale of this year’s Olojo festival.
According to a statement from the monarch’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the seclusion commenced on Sunday. During this period, Oba Ogunwusi will commune with his ancestors and pray for Nigerians and humanity as a whole.
Olafare also noted that the Ooni urged Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it works to address the national economy.
Before entering seclusion, Oba Ogunwusi described this annual rite as a sacred moment on the throne, dedicated to interacting with his ancestors and praying for the Oduduwa race and all of humanity.
“This time around, I want to pray and seek for the face of our Creator to intervene in the current economic situation.
“Things are very tough and people are feeling the hardship, I want to pray for all and sundry and especially urge the youths to exercise patience so that we will not use our hands to destroy our country,” Ooni said.
The foremost African monarch admitted that Nigeria is currently in a trying period when the citizens are facing a lot of socioeconomic challenges in all ramifications of life.
“I know that people are passing through difficult periods in which they are not finding life easy and truly this is a challenging period.
“But I know that after this festival, normalcy will return to the country, as the problems we’re facing will soon come to an end,” Oba Ogunwusi further said.
He urged the government at all levels to put in more effort towards serving the populace by making available bountiful dividends of democracy to the citizens.
Olafare further noted that the 7-day seclusion which usually precedes the annual Olojo celebrations, “allows the Ooni to withdraw from the human distractions. It is usually marked by silence, reflection, and spiritual cleansing, allowing him to focus solely on the divine communication with the spirits.
“During this time, he undertakes solemn prayers and makes offerings, not only on behalf of the Yoruba race, but for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the entire nation. It is a time of deep intercession, seeking the favour of the gods for good harvests, protection, and guidance for his people.
“Ooni Ogunwusi will be marking his 9th edition of the Olojo festival on Saturday 28th when he will be appearing to the public with the sacred Crown of Oduduwa known as ‘Ade Are’ worn once a year to commemorate the first day of mankind.”
