The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II has said that his 7-Day Seclusion, preparatory to the grand finale of the 2024 Olojo festival will be used for prayers for the Nigerian people in the face of the nation's current challenging economic situation.
Ooni Ogunwusi made the disclosure on Sunday while addressing newsmen at his palace in Ile-Ife shortly before embarking on the annual spiritual seclusion rite.
Oba Ogunwusi, in a statement by his Spokesman, Otunba Moses Olafare, also pleaded with Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration while fixing the national economy.
The royal father, according to Olafare, described the annual seclusion rite as the most sacred moment for him on the throne which is meant to interact with his ancestors, praying for the people of the Oduduwa race worldwide and mankind in general.
"This time around, I want to pray and seek for 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 all and sundry and especially urge the youths to exercise patience so that we will not use our hands to destroy our country,” Ooni said.
Admitting that Nigeria are currently in a trying period due to the socioeconomic challenges, the Ooni 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 further urged the government at all levels to redouble their effort towards serving the people by making available bountiful dividends of democracy to the citizens.
Olafare further noted that the 7-day seclusion which usually precedes the annual Olojo celebrations, “allows the Ooni to withdraw from the human distractions. It is usually marked by silence, reflection, and spiritual cleansing, allowing him to focus solely on the divine communication with the spirits.
“During this time, 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 be marking his 9th edition of the Olojo festival on Saturday 28th when he will be appearing to the public with the sacred Crown of Oduduwa known as ‘Ade Are’ worn once a year to commemorate the first day of mankind.”, the statement added.
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