Monarch says period will be devoted to prayers for peace, unity and national development
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has commenced a seven-day spiritual seclusion ahead of the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The annual seclusion began on Sunday evening and forms part of the traditional rites preceding the Olojo Festival, a major cultural and spiritual celebration associated with Ile-Ife and the Yoruba people.
Traditional observance
The Olojo Festival is connected to the cultural and spiritual heritage of Ile-Ife, which holds a significant place in Yoruba history and tradition.
During the seclusion, the Ooni is expected to observe traditional rites and dedicate time to spiritual reflection and prayer ahead of the festival.
The monarch said he would use the period to pray for peace, unity and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Prayers for national wellbeing
The Ooni, who serves as Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, linked the observance to broader concerns about the country’s wellbeing.
The festival provides an opportunity for cultural preservation, communal participation and the continuation of traditional practices associated with the ancient city of Ile-Ife.
Further details concerning the 2026 Olojo Festival programme, public ceremonies and scheduled activities should be confirmed through the palace or official festival organisers.