…Prays for peace in Nigeria

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Ooni of Ife and President of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) yesterday entered a seven-day spiritual seclusion.

A statement by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, made available to newsmen in Osogbo, said the monarch is expected to commune with the ancestors and pray to the Almighty Olodumare (God) for his people, Nigeria, and the entire mankind, pleading with Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration while it works to fix the national economy.

The Ooni, Oba Ogunwusi, while addressing the press on his way to seclusion in preparation for this year’s Olojo Festival, outside his Ile Oodua palace on Sunday, thanked God for the privilege to observe this year’s seclusion.

He described the annual seclusion rite as the most sacred moment for him on the throne, which he utilises to interact with his ancestors and pray for the people, the Oduduwa race worldwide, and mankind in general.

“This time around, I want to pray and seek 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 everyone, and particularly urge the youth to exercise patience so that we do not destroy our country with our own hands,” the Ooni said.

The foremost African monarch acknowledged that Nigeria is currently in a trying period, with citizens facing numerous socioeconomic challenges in all aspects of life.

“I know that people are passing through difficult times, finding life hard, and indeed, this is a challenging period.

“But I believe that after this festival, normalcy will return to the country, as the problems we’re facing will soon come to an end,” he stated.

The Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, who also serves as Co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), urged the current government to do more for the people by delivering bountiful dividends of democracy to the citizenry.

The seclusion, which usually precedes the annual Olojo celebrations, allows the Ooni to withdraw from human distractions. It is marked by silence, reflection, and spiritual cleansing, enabling him to focus solely on divine communication with the spirits.

During this period, 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 mark his 9th edition of the Olojo Festival on Saturday, 28th September, when he will appear before the public with the sacred Crown of Oduduwa, known as ‘Ade Are,’ which is worn only once a year to commemorate the first day of mankind.