Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged Nigerian politicians and public office holders to put citizens’ welfare and national interest above personal ambitions, warning that political leadership must be driven by service to humanity.
The traditional ruler made the call on Monday evening in Ile-Ife, Osun State, while addressing journalists after paying homage and performing traditional rites at his royal family home as part of activities marking the 2026 Olojo Festival.
According to a statement issued by Sodiq Lawal, Senior Media Officer at the Ooni’s Palace, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, the monarch stressed the need for political leaders to prioritise the collective interests of Nigerians.
Ogunwusi, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), called on leaders to work towards building a peaceful, united and prosperous country.
He noted that political office comes with enormous responsibilities, urging those entrusted with public positions to remain committed to improving citizens’ living conditions and strengthening national unity.
The Ooni also appealed to Nigerians to support initiatives that promote peace and development, emphasising that the country’s progress requires the collective commitment of both leaders and citizens.
Ooni describes Olojo Festival as global celebration of hope
Speaking on the significance of the 2026 Olojo Festival, the monarch described the annual celebration as more than a cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, saying it represents a global festival of thanksgiving, hope, restoration and divine intervention.
He explained that the emergence of daylight, which the festival commemorates, carries a message of renewal and hope for humanity, particularly amid the challenges confronting nations worldwide.
“This Olojo has given us a sample of appreciation. It is a global festival, a festival of thanksgiving. The day that the day comes out across the universe, we celebrate it here in the ancient city of Ile-Ife. It gives us hope that our condition as a nation is turning around,” the Ooni said.
The monarch said the festival provides an opportunity for reflection, prayers and renewed hope for Nigeria and the international community.
He further urged political leaders to regard their positions as opportunities to serve humanity rather than avenues for personal enrichment or actions capable of deepening divisions.
Ooni offers prayers for Tinubu, Nigeria
Ogunwusi also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and offered ancestral prayers and blessings for the President.
He expressed hope for peace, stability and sustainable progress in Nigeria, while reiterating the importance of placing national interest above partisan considerations.
The monarch’s remarks came as Ile-Ife hosted the 2026 Olojo Festival, which attracted traditional rulers, government officials, politicians, cultural enthusiasts, tourists and other dignitaries from different parts of Nigeria and beyond.
Olojo Festival boosts commercial activities in Ile-Ife
Beyond its spiritual and cultural significance, the festival generated increased commercial activities across Ile-Ife, with traders, hospitality operators, transporters, food vendors and other businesses recording higher patronage during the celebration.
Olojo Festival remains one of the most significant traditional celebrations associated with Ile-Ife and the Yoruba people. It is traditionally linked to the commemoration of the emergence of daylight after primordial darkness.
The annual celebration features spiritual rites, prayers and cultural activities centred on peace, prosperity and progress.
The 2026 edition has once again drawn international attention to Ile-Ife, providing an avenue for preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage while reinforcing the ancient city’s position as a major destination for cultural tourism.
