Ooni Of Ife Begins Seven-Day Seclusion Ahead Of 2026 Olojo Festival

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has commenced his annual seven-day spiritual seclusion ahead of the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

The monarch entered the ancestral shrine at Ile Mole on Sunday evening, September 20, 2026, accompanied by his wife, Olori Ashley, along with traditional chiefs and aides.

During the week-long isolation, the Ooni will refrain from public appearances and modern communication, focusing on prayers for peace, economic stability, and national development.

Before entering the shrine, Oba Ogunwusi urged Nigerian politicians to prioritize the welfare of citizens and serve the public selflessly.

The retreat serves as spiritual preparation for the monarch to wear the sacred Aare Crown, an act performed only once a year during the festival. The public events for the 2026 Olojo Festival will take place from September 24 to September 28.