The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged Nigerians to be patient with the Bola Tinubu-led administration as he embarks on a seven-day seclusion to commune with his ancestors.
This sacred period, preceding the annual Olojo celebrations, allows the monarch to withdraw from worldly distractions and focus on divine communication with the spirits.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi expressed his intention to pray for the country’s economic situation, urging Nigerians, especially the youth, to exercise patience during these challenging times.
“This time around, I want to pray and seek for the face of our Creator to intervene on the current economic situation,” he said.
“Things are very tough and people are feeling the hardship, I want to pray for all and sundry and specially urge the youths to exercise patience so that we will not use our hands to destroy our country.”
The monarch acknowledged the difficulties faced by many Nigerians but remains optimistic that normalcy will return after the festival.
He said, “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 also encouraged the government to do more for its citizens, ensuring that democracy’s benefits reach the people. During his seclusion, he will undertake solemn prayers and make offerings for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the entire nation, seeking the favor of the gods for good harvests, protection, and guidance.
On Saturday, the 28th, Oba Ogunwusi will emerge from seclusion, wearing the sacred Crown of Oduduwa, ‘Ade Are,’ to commemorate the first day of mankind, marking his 9th edition of the Olojo festival.
As the 51st and current Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi is the traditional ruler and monarch of the Yoruba kingdom of Ile-Ife.