Osogbo was filled with colour, tradition, and excitement on Friday as the 2025 Osun-Osogbo Festival reached its grand finale, attracting worshippers, dignitaries, and tourists from across the world.
Security was a major highlight of this year’s event. Armed soldiers guarded the entrance to the sacred Osun Grove, while police officers were stationed along the main routes leading to the river.
The celebrations grew more vibrant as groups of hunters and traditionalists arrived, firing occasional gunshots into the air before heading to the riverside for sacred rituals.
Festivalgoers Osunfunke Adeleke from Lagos and Kokumo Olayanju from Ogun State praised the tight security, describing it as essential to prevent any disruption. Adeleke noted that the atmosphere had been peaceful and well-coordinated.
By mid-morning, notable guests included former Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun; Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Abiodun Ojo; renowned textile artist, Mrs. Nike Okundaye; respected Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon; and Dr. Oluseyi Atanda, President of the Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Nigeria in Osun State.
The festival’s global appeal was evident, with visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, and the Netherlands in attendance.
At the time of this report, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, and the Arugba Osun (votary maid) were still expected at the grove for the concluding rites.
