Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has urged political leaders, regardless of party affiliation, to work together for the progress and stability of the state.
Speaking at the grand finale of the annual Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife on Saturday, Adeleke—represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi—highlighted the importance of putting aside partisan differences to strengthen peace and unity.
He praised the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for his consistent efforts to promote Yoruba culture and heritage at an international level. The governor also encouraged both politicians and residents to support the monarch’s initiatives aimed at ensuring peace and development across the state.
According to Adeleke, the attendance of leaders from different political backgrounds at the festival demonstrated that unity across party lines is possible. He stressed the need for reconciliation and constructive dialogue among politicians, noting that prolonged conflicts hinder development. He cautioned against rivalries that could lead to violence and called on leaders to put the state’s interests above personal ambitions.
The governor further appealed to young people and elders to reject any attempts to instigate unrest in Ile-Ife or other parts of the state.
Also at the event, former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, applauded the Ooni for his dedication to preserving tradition and promoting peace. He described the Olojo Festival as a vital cultural celebration that unites the Yoruba people and draws worldwide attention.
The President of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, Hassan Oladotun, echoed this sentiment, calling the festival a remarkable showcase of Yoruba heritage. He urged Yoruba people across the globe to uphold the Omoluabi values of integrity, respect, and responsibility wherever they live.
President of the Ife Development Board, Gbenga Adefaye, thanked the Ooni for elevating the festival to international prominence, stressing that the event is not just for the people of Ife but a global celebration of culture.
This year’s festival drew visitors from Brazil, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries. João Silva, a tourist from Brazil, told The Track News Nigeria that the festival’s sacred rituals and vibrant displays of culture made it feel like a “homecoming” for Africans in the diaspora.
Prominent Nollywood stars such as Lere Paimo (Eda Onile-Ola) and Idowu Philips (Iya Rainbow) were also in attendance.
The Olojo Festival is an ancient Yoruba celebration held yearly in Ile-Ife. It commemorates the day of creation and honours Ogun, the deity of iron. It also marks the descent of Oduduwa, regarded as the progenitor of the Yoruba people. The highlight of the festival is when the Ooni of Ife emerges from seclusion wearing a sacred crown to offer prayers for blessings and spiritual renewal for his people.
