By: Manoah Kikekon
Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has urged Nigerians to "remain patient" with President Bola Tinubu's administration while the country faces challenges.
Speaking ahead of his seven-day seclusion, during which he plans to pray and converse with the ancestors, the monarch voiced worry about the hardship that many countrymen are currently experiencing.
Oba Ogunwusi acknowledged Nigerians' challenges, stating that the current circumstance is a testing phase for the country.
According to a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the Ooni would spend a week in seclusion as part of traditional traditions, requesting divine intervention for Nigeria's well-being.
According to Olafare, the monarch stated before going into seclusion that the rite is the most precious moment for him on the throne because it allows him to contact with his ancestors and pray for the people, the Oduduwa race worldwide, and humanity in general.
The statement read, “This time around, I want to pray and seek for the face of our Creator to intervene on the current economic situation.
“Things are very tough and people are feeling the hardship, I want to pray for all and sundry and specially urge the youths to exercise patience so that we will not use our hands to destroy our country."
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 urged the Tinubu government to do more to serve the populace by making bountiful dividends of democracy for the citizenry.
It said, "The seclusion usually precedes the annual Olojo celebrations, which 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," he said.
"Oba 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 the mankind," Olafare added.