Olojo Festival: Adeleke Calls for Political Unity, Hails Ooni’s Role in Promoting Yoruba Culture

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has urged politicians across party lines to embrace unity and reconciliation for the peace and development of the state.

Speaking at the grand finale of the annual Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife on Saturday, the governor—represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi—stressed the importance of setting aside political rivalries to maintain harmony.

Adeleke praised the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for his tireless efforts in promoting Yoruba culture and tradition to global recognition. He called on politicians and residents to continue supporting the monarch in fostering peace and development.

“The presence of leaders from diverse political backgrounds at this festival shows that unity is possible, irrespective of party affiliations,” Adeleke said. He added that politicians had fought long enough and should now focus on building a peaceful atmosphere for progress.

He further cautioned against rivalry that could breed violence, appealing to youths and elders to resist any attempts to destabilize Ile-Ife and the state at large.

Also speaking at the event, former APC National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, commended the Ooni for his dedication to preserving tradition and promoting peace. He described the Olojo Festival as a significant heritage that unites the Yoruba people and attracts global attention.

The President of the Yoruba Council, Worldwide, Mr. Hassan Oladotun, highlighted the festival as a celebration of Yorubaland’s cultural richness and urged Yorubas everywhere to uphold the Omoluabi ethos and values.

Similarly, the President of the Ife Development Board, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, applauded the Ooni for elevating the Olojo Festival to international prominence, noting that it is “not only for the people of Ife but a global celebration.”

The festival drew tourists from Brazil, South Africa, the UK, Canada, and other parts of the world. João Silva, a tourist from Brazil, described the event as deeply spiritual:
“Being here feels like a homecoming. The energy, the rituals, and the unity are deeply moving,” he said.

Notable Nollywood stars, including Lere Paimo (Eda Onile-Ola) and Idowu Philips (Iya Rainbow), were also in attendance.

The Olojo Festival, an ancient Yoruba celebration held annually in Ile-Ife, commemorates the day of creation and honors Ogun, the god of iron. It marks the descent of Oduduwa, progenitor of the Yoruba people, and features the Ooni emerging from seclusion to wear the sacred crown and offer prayers for blessings and renewal of spiritual identity.

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