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OSUN OSOGBO FESTIVAL: ITS ORIGIN, NATURE AND SIGNIFICANCE FOR GLOBAL YORUBA CULTURAL ADVANCEMENT

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THE OSUN OSOGBO FESTIVAL: ITS FUNCTIONS AND AESTHETICS

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Osun Osogbo Festival: The Annual Nigerian Event That Honors The Osun Goddess

Osun Osogbo International Festival attracts tourists from all over the world who go to the street of Osogbo to join the annual rites.

Brunno Braga • Sep 22, 2021

Updated Sep 23, 2021

Every year, thousands of followers of traditional religions across Nigeria converge at the Osogbo , Osun state capital to join in one of the most popular festivals in West Africa — the Osun Osogbo International Festival.

The five-day event of celebrations happens in August.

This Nigerian festival attracts tourists within and outside the country swarming the street of Osogbo to join the annual rites, with thousands escorting the maiden calabash bearer to the shrine to show gratitude to the Osun goddess.

Osun worship belongs to the Yoruba people, which are the predominant ethnic group in South Western Nigeria. They were believed to have originated from Ile-Ife. Their traditions are closely linked to nature.

There is a strong belief in the supreme being God of all creations, called Olorun or Olodumare, and over 200 other gods, called Orisas. Many of these gods are represented by natural creations in the environment.

Sango, for example, is the god of thunder. Yemoja, the goddess of the sea, and Oya— one of Sango’s wives— is the goddess of the storm.

This religious tradition is celebrated in many countries outside Africa such as Brazil , Uruguay, Colombia and Cuba.

Despite the influence of the Western culture and religion, the festival has maintained its originality, authenticity and acceptability among nations worldwide.

The celebration transcends various eras right from when it was only known to the Yoruba people of Nigeria down to present day when the cultural festival has now gained world acclaim and is even celebrated beyond the shores of Africa. 

During the days of celebrations, followers and tourists line behind the Arugba showing gratitude for the previous year’s blessings and praying for more blessings in the coming year. The group arrives at the Osun to a patiently waiting crowd that receives them amidst prayers in a very beautiful ceremony.

Osun Osogbo Festival is not only important because of its religious approach, but also for keeping Yoruba’s tradition alive and its potential to attract tourists from all over the world.

“Osun Osogbo festival is a brand on its own. Therefore, the Osun State Government must upgrade the Groove to an international standard as it is done in Brazil and other Caribbean countries,” Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, told Vanguard News Nigeria.

Cultural enthusiast and traditionalist, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon also stresses the need for Yoruba nation to establish a means to defend itself and protect their cultural heritage.

“We need to be more alert and protect ourselves using traditional means. We need to deploy traditional means to protect our people. Yoruba across the country must rediscover itself. We must uphold the tradition and culture which God bestows on us,” he said.

In his remarks to Vanguard Nigeria News, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, said Osogbo town was blessed with the Osun river goddess, declaring that the festival ranks among the best in the world and urged the Osun state government to reinvent the glory of the Osun Osogbo Festival by providing the support that is needed to make Osogbo the business hub of the state.

For him, Osun Osogbo festival remains an annual fiesta for tourism attraction, adding that the state is capable of sustaining culture, tradition and Yoruba heritage.

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The osun-osogbo festival: a celebration of yoruba heritage and culture.

• Dynast Amir
• Jul 9, 2024

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

Festivals in Africa hold a lot of magic! From ancient rituals, and recitation of praise poetry to modern-day spectacles, festivals are an immersive experience influenced by culture, history, religion, music, art and fashion. It transcends cultural boundaries; celebrates traditions, promotes human relationships and intercultural bonds, and encapsulates beauty, diversity, and a colourful atmosphere. Among these, the Osun-Osogbo Festival stands out as a significant cultural and spiritual event that draws the attention of thousands of pilgrims, devotees, and spectators locally and internationally.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival: Nigeria’s Heritage of Cultural Splendor

The Osun-Osogbo Festival is one of the festivals at the heart of Yoruba tradition. This two-week-long annual festival is held at the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove , on the banks of the Osun River. It pays homage to the goddess and celebrates spirituality, a vibrant tradition with deep historical roots and cultural significance. The festival attracts tourists, worshippers, and spectators, and is an avenue for reunions. It includes recitation of praise poetry, dance, music, 

Historical Background

The Osun-Osogbo Festival has its historical roots in Yoruba mythology. The festival is one of the oldest in southwestern Nigeria. It was established as a tribute to the river goddess Osun, a deity revered for her ability to grant fertility and prosperity. The festival has been an annual event for centuries and is a link between the people of Osogbo, their ancestors, and the goddess.

The River Goddess Osun

Osun is one of the pantheon Yoruba gods and she is the patron saint of the Osun river in Nigeria. She is the goddess of divinity, feminity, fertility, beauty and love. There are different myths and facts surrounding the goddess Osun and the Osun-Osogbo festival, one tells the story of how she blessed the region with water after a drought that caused severe hunger and illness. 

Rituals and Offerings

Over the years, the festival’s evolution hasn’t changed the deeply rooted core traditions and cultural beliefs. The sacrificial offering consists of farm produce, livestock, and other valuable local items offered to the goddess as an appreciation for her protection, blessings and fertility.

Iwo popo: Among other rituals carried out during the festival, iwo popo is the traditional purification ceremony that marks the festival’s commencement and is carried out to cleanse the land.

Atupa/Ina Olujumerindinlogun: The 16-point centuries-old relic lamp is lit three days after the opening ceremony, this event takes place at the main market with people in attendance to watch the burning lamps. The 16 lamps represent the sixteen chapters in Ifa Oracle.

Ibori and Ibo-ade: In this prayer ritual, the crowns of past kings are paraded for prayers by the Ataoja of Osogbo and his council for appeasement to the head of the king and purification of the crowns to be won by the Ataoja.

Ibo-Ile: This is done in appeasement of the Earth goddess for fruitfulness

Arugba Osun: The Arugba, a young female virgin selected by the priestess of the goddess as a chosen representative, is one of the important people in the festival. She carries the symbolic calabash containing the sacrificial offerings to the goddess. 

Olose: These are the Arugba’s attendant who ensures she completes the journey without stumbling.

Procession to the Groove

The Arugba procession is a one-mile walk from the Palace of the traditional ruler the Ataoja of Osogbo, with worshippers dressed in traditional outfits, dancing to the beats of the drum through the journey to the Osun River.

The Sacred Groove

The groove, a natural conservation, is located along the banks of the river Osun. It is a sacred area of worship for devotees and a reflection of Yoruba cosmology. 

Cultural Significance of The Festival in Africa

The Osun-Osogbo Festival is a religious, historical and cultural ceremony showcasing the Yoruba culture. It features traditional music, dance, art exhibitions, and performances that depict Yoruba folklore and history. 

• The festival fosters unity among Yoruba people
• It is an avenue for artistic expressions
• It serves as an opportunity for cultural education for younger generations
• Boost the local economy in Osogbo.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival’s deep roots in Yoruba tradition and spirituality hold a significant place in PANAFEST (Pan-African Historical Theater Festival) due to its embodiment of African heritage and culture. Its emphasis on traditional rituals, reverence for ancestral spirits, and celebration of African arts aligns with PANAFEST’s objectives to promote African history, unity, and self-determination. 

Despite the influence of Western culture and religion, the festival transcends various eras. The festival and the sacred grove are symbols of cultural resilience and continuity, making it an event of great importance, and a celebration of Africa’s identity and legacy and global cultural celebration.

UNESCO Recognition: Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage

In 2005, UNESCO recognised the Osun-Osogbo Festival as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This acknowledgement highlights the festival’s importance as a cultural treasure and its role in promoting dialogue among different cultures.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival is a testament to Africa’s enduring traditions and spiritual depth irrespective of external influences. It encapsulates not only the religious beliefs of the Yoruba people but also their artistic expressions, community values, and connection to nature. As one of Africa’s most celebrated festivals, it continues to attract global attention and respect, preserving a legacy that transcends borders and generations. Book your today and be part of this extraordinary celebration!

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The Osun Oshogbo Festival

The early history of the Oshogbo people is founded on mythical and spiritual beliefs, along the lines of the traditions of the Yoruba people. The Osun river goddess is credited with the founding and establishment of Oshogbo town. Some describe her as the Oso-Igbo, the queen and original founder of Oshogbo town; thus, the Osun Oshogbo festival, which has been celebrated for about six hundred centuries, was built around the relationship between the river goddess Osun and this first Monarch of Oshogbo kingdom. Oba Gbadewolu Laroye.

A look into history reveals that most of the age-long culture heritage of the founding fathers of Africans has gone into extinction with the coming of modern norms and civilization, while attempt will not be made to question the benefits of the encroaching way of life, it must be said that effort must be made to remind Africans of their roots, for the sake of posterity, for which lots of organizations and institutions must be given credence.

Despite the gradual fading away of celebrated African cultural traditions, one that has not only stood the test of time, but has been a reference point even till today, is the Osun Oshogbo festival. Since 1370, the people of this part of the world, South-West Nigeria, have been able to hold on to what was bestowed on them by their fore-fathers.

As a mark of the bond that was established six centuries ago, the Oshogbo people gather annually to celebrate what they observe as their Founder’s Day. A unique cultural practice built around the relationship that existed between a river goddess and Oba Gbadewolu Laroye inside the Osun Grove, lay the origin of the Oshogbo ascendancy and kingship institution.

Precisely, every August, a grand and colourful festival is organized at the “Osun” sacred groves in Oshogbo. This draws tens of thousands of believers and tourists from both inside and outside the country. The custodian and priestess of this grove is a German born devotee of the Osun deity, Susan Wenger, 83, popularly called “Aduni Olorisa” or “Iya Osun” by the believers. The Osun devotees dress traditionally in white cloths and believe that the River goddess brings divine favour and has healing and fertility powers.

Despite the proximity of the forest to human habitation, this grove was traditionally maintained and protected by the indigenous people using the myths and beliefs system. This prevents any form of encroachment regarded as sacrilegious and offensive to the gods and the goddess. Osun grove was recognized by UNESCO in 2005 as a World Heritage Site and this has been linked to the consistencies that the festival has enjoyed over the years and the protection of the values of the grove by the people.

According to Oluremi Funsho Adebayo, the co-coordinator of the National Museum, the reason why UNESCO recognized this site, inclusive of the festival is because of the authenticity that is involved. It is the only festival that since 1370 AD has remained what it was originally despite modernity; there has not been any adulteration; everything has been in its original state and all structures that were put in the place that forms the foundation of Osun Oshogbo kingdom are still in existence in the grove.

Osun Oshogbo festival has a two week programme of events starting with the traditional cleansing of the town called “Iwopopo” followed by the lighting of 500 years old sixteen points lamp three days later, called “Olojomerindinlogun.” This is followed by “Ibroriade,” which is the assemblage of the crowns of the past ruler (Ataojas) for blessings and its being led by the Ataoja who is the ruler and votary maid (Arugba) propelled by Yeye Osun, and a committee of priestesses. The Arugba bore the people age-long prayers to the grove in a calabash of effigy which can only be carried by a virgin, which signifies purity.

This festival, with its international status, has become a major tourist attraction. Observations over the years have shown that the festive period is about the best time to see the city as people parade the streets in their colours. The people look forward to it with great expectation and for the period that it lasts, procession, dance, art exhibition, and colourful carnivals are major attractions of the Osun Oshogbo cultural festival.

The event over the years, has given residents and tourists the opportunity to recreate socially, culturally, as they re-enact one of their renowned age-long spiritual and communal feast.  Indeed the Osun Oshogbo has been and is one of the most outstanding and preserved cultural practices of the various festivals in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

References/Further Reading

Adebayo, Oluremi F., National Museum, 2007. Ogunfuyi, Kunle. Nigeria: Osun Oshogbo – Honouring the river goddess, This Day, September 6, 2008. http://www.allconferences.com/conferences/2006/20060724103901/ http://www.expertscolumn.com/content/osun-Oshogbo-festival http://www.faitharts.itgo.com/whats_new.html http://www.osogbocity.com/

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Osun-Osogbo Festival: Yoruba’s Largest Indigenous Religious Tradition

Written by David Ugbabe

Osogbo has for over 600 years played host to millions of Nigerians and tourists across the world who come to witness the festival of Osogbo. This ceremony exposes the rich indigenous Yoruba religious tradition becoming one of the largest religions in the world, with over 100 million followers. Often held in honour of the goddess of fertility, the week-long

festival is an avenue to offer gifts and sacrifices to the goddess as well as performances that include playing the drums, singing, and dancing. The worshippers also use this as an avenue to show off their costumes.

The Oshogbo Grove

Located on the outskirts of Osogbo, the Osogbo Grove is the sacred place and is believed by its devotees to be one of the last remaining places that the spirits, or “Orishas” reveal themselves to bless them. The Osogbo Grove which consists of the last remaining 67 acres of virgin forest in the area was recognized in 2003 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

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History of the Osun-Osogbo Festival

According to narrations on the origin of the festival, experts on traditional religion in Nigeria said it has been observed for over 600 years. The founding fathers of the Osogbo community in a bid to build their houses started felling all the trees by the river bank. However, it is said that the spirit of the river-god Osun called out to them, ordering them away. The place has

since turned into a sacred worship centre for devotees to the deity. It has become a yearly ritual to hold the festival which holds in Osogbo, the Osun State capital. It is said that the festival renews the contract between humans and the divine whereby the goddess releases grace to the community and honours its sacred place. The grove has been a sacred area of worship for the spirit’s devotees ever since.

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Osun Osogbo Festival

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The Osun Osogbo festival is the biggest annual traditional religious event of the Yoruba people, attracting thousands of worshippers and spectators from all over the world. The festival is packed with facinating performances; dancing, playing the drums and singing and elaborate display of colourful costumes to appease Osun, the goddess of fertility.

• Title: Osun Osogbo Festival
• Date Created: 2019
• Location Created: Osogbo, Osun, Nigeria

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Osun-Osogbo festival: Embracing tradition, blazing new paths

For the adherents of the Osun goddess of fertility and wealth, local and foreign tourists, including traditionalists, the month of August, each year, always brings with it great expectations as thousands of people converge on Osun groove for the annual commemoration of Osun-Osogbo festival. This has been an annual celebration that unites both Nigerians and tourists thereby bringing to fore the rich preserve of Yoruba culture and tradition. The month of August for adherents attracts large population of individuals, groups within Nigeria and the Diaspora to the ancient city of Osogbo.

Expectedly, this year’s celebration only upped the competence of the organisers as mammoth crowds in various garbs thronged Osogbo, capital of Osun State as the city centre played host to dignitaries from all walks of life, with different sociocultural groups as they put up impressive displays to complement the dynamics of the festival. The collage of attraction of this year’s edition of the Osun-Osogbo festival included drumming, dancing, musical performance, display of elaborate costumes by worshippers of the Osun goddess, among many others.

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Among the cultural groups that graced this year’s festival were the adherents of the Osun goddess, who adorned white attires, with other traditional accoutrement such as beads. Others who were not left out were members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and other cultural groups.

Many descendants of the Yoruba nation from Cuba, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Spain, Canada, and the United States, mostly tourists, thronged the groove on Friday for the grand finale of the festival dedicated to the Osun deity. The goddess has been reputed for her potency in giving children to the barren and granting other requests brought to her by her adherents who usually besiege her domain for blessings.

Apart from serving as a veritable means of boosting the economy of Osogbo, each year the celebration is held, Osun Osogbo is also explored as a traditional channel of cleansing the city and creating effective platform for cultural reunion of the people with their ancestors and founders of the Osogbo kingdom.

As usual, this year’s two-week long activities commenced with the traditional cleansing of Osogbo, referred to as ‘Iwopopo’. This process is followed up in three days by the lighting of the 500-year-old sixteen-point lamp called ‘Ina Olojumerindinlogun’. This was subsequently followed by ‘Iboriade’: an assemblage of the crowns of the past rulers, which was presided over by the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun. The Osogbo paramount traditional ruler offered prayers for blessings, with the active participation of ‘Arugba’ (a female virgin who carries the traditional calabash), Yeye Osun and a committee of priestesses. The Arugba has constantly been regarded as the key feature of the Osun-Osogbo festival. She is a votary virgin who bears the Osun calabash on her head; the calabash contains symbols of sacrificial materials with the intent of appeasing and worshipping the Osun goddess.

According to the dictates of the people’s customs relating to the festival, the Arugba is not only seen as a virgin maid any longer, she is regarded as the bridge between the goddess herself and the adherents. Worshippers thereafter offer prayers and symbolically cast all their problems on her as she bears the calabash and leads the mass of people on her path to the river bank.

Historically, the intriguing story of the Osun-Osogbo festival started over 700 years ago when a group of settlers led by a great hunter, Olutimehin, settled at the bank of the river to escape the famine in their former dwelling place. Findings from historians indicated that Osun, the water goddess, was said to have appeared to Olutimehin and requested him and his group to move up some bit to higher ground, which is the present-day Osogbo town.

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Osun revealed herself to be the goddess of the grove and of the river. She promised to protect the group and make their women fruitful if only they would offer the annual sacrifice to her in return. The group agreed and vowed to offer sacrifices annually to the goddess if she would honour her vows. Interestingly, the annual ritual had gone behind the precinct of just offering sacrifices to a river goddess, as it has succeeded in becoming an international celebration of cultural events attracting people from all over the world to Osogbo.

Retrospectively, events of the 1950s gave a graphic detail of how the Osun-Osogbo grove was subjected to wanton neglect as traditional priests abandoned the sacred forest thus giving way to prohibited activities such as fishing, hunting and felling of trees in the grove until an Austrian, the late Susanne Wenger came to halt the desecration.

With the encouragement of the then Ataoja of Osogbo and the support of the local people, Wenger formed the New Sacred Art Movement to challenge land speculators, repel poachers, protect shrines, thereby kick-starting a long process of restoring the sacredness of the Osun-Osogbo grove back to  its traditional status. She rebuilt the abandoned shrines again and re-modelled the gods in sculpture and ceramics, representing over 75 cultural gods in artful representations.

While speaking during the grand finale of the festival, the Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola assured that his administration would continue to support cultural festivals with a view to enhancing the social and economic development of the state, noting that providing critical support and creation of enabling atmosphere for the tourism sub-sector were capable of shoring up the revenue generation drive of the state government.

Represented by his Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr Olawale Adebisi, Aregbesola maintained that his government was keen on the sustainability of the Osun-Osogbo festival due to its potential for providing the needed platform for the export of Yoruba traditional heritage where cultural exploits in the state can be showcased to both local and international tourists.

According to him, “the Osun-Osogbo festival also provides avenue for the largest gathering of youths; so it provides a channel for transfer of culture and tradition to the younger generation. It also brings about economic development as tourists who come for the festival would lodge and spend their money which improves the state economy.”

Aregbesola, however, tasked the chief host of the festival, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun to use the occasion to pray for the nation and Osun, specifically for the peaceful conduct of the September 22 gubernatorial poll. Aregbesola said the traditional ruler should offer prayers with a view to supporting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) win so that the developmental strides in the state would continue.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser to Aregbesola on Culture and Tourism, Mrs Taiwo Oluga, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, who was also the chairperson of the occasion, sought for more collaboration from relevant stakeholders to promote culture and traditional heritage in the state.

Addressing thousands of adherents and worshippers of the goddess, Oba Olanipekun commended the partners and sponsors for their contributions towards the success of this year’s festival especially corporate bodies, royal fathers and Nigerians from within the country and the Diaspora.

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History of the arugba: osun-osogbo festival.

Published by Emmanuel Ojatunwase on 17th August, 2022

The centrepiece of the Osun-Osogbo Festival is the Arugba ( Calabash carrier ). She is an Osun calabash-carrying votary virgin, which is a traditional allegory of the Virgin Mary. The calabash contains sacrifices intended to be made in her honour as offerings to the Osun goddess , or river. The Arugba is now worshipped as a goddess rather than just a virgin maid, and when she carries the calabash and leads the crowd to the river, people pray to her and blame all of their problems on her.

The symbolic calabash bearing the sacrifice’s offerings is carried by Arugba . This calabash is thought to have been given to the Osogbo forefathers by the goddess Osun , who stipulated that a royal virgin lady must transport it to the grove on the festival day. The Arugba is closely watched by the Olose (also known as Whip Boys ) as she travels to and from the grove because she must avoid stepping on a stone or stump, as this would send the wrong message to the populace.

The Arugba Ritual

One of the main attractions of the Osun-Osogbo festival is a virgin votary carrying a calabash on her head, bearing the offerings that would be made in order to please and worship the goddess. People throw their concerns at her and offer prayers as she leads the procession to the river because they recognise her as a goddess-representative. The Arugba’s hitch-free journey from the palace to the groove is therefore crucial to the festival’s success. It should be noted that the Ataoja and the Osun priests and priestesses perform the holy rituals of the Osun festival in secret within the sanctuary at the Osun grove in order to renew the sacred tie and pathway between the goddess and the people of Osogbo. 

The stage is set for the secular ritual drama, during which reenactments of some historical events take place to the admiration of the general public attending the festival after the sacred rituals have been performed at the inner sanctum of the grove by the initiates ( Ataoja , the Osun priestess, and other priests). The Ataoja then sits on the stone of power in a designated area of the grove, communes with his ancestors, and feeds the goddess with the sacrifice after receiving it from the Osun priestess and Osun priest .

The Reenactment of the Events of the Early History of Osogbo

The act that is performed by the Ataoja and the Arugba is an important reconstruction of the occasions in Osogbo’s early history. First off, Olarooye , the first Ataoja , sat on the same stone that the current Ataoja is currently sitting on when he was about to make the first sacrifice to the goddess during the settlement of Osogbo. Additionally, the current Ataoja communes with the goddess and asks for her continuing assistance and protection in the upcoming year, just as Olarooye did before and after making the first sacrifice to the Osun goddess .

Finally, the Ataoja feeds the goddess like his ancestor and receives good tidings just as Olarooye received god-fish on his palm, which earned him the title “ Atewogbeja ,” shortened to ‘Ataoja’ . The feeding of the goddess by the Ataoja marks the end of the rituals of the Osun festival and confirms that the waters of the river are blessed.

After the conclusion of the ritual, people will start shouting “ Ore Yeye Osun ,” which is Yoruba for “We adore you, Osun the Great Mother.” Additionally, people start drinking river water and collecting it in various kinds of containers, some of which they use to wash their faces. People believe that the river’s sacred waters, which are immediately available following the sacrifice, have the ability to heal all illnesses, including infertility, chronic headaches, and other conditions. Following that, the Ataoja and other individuals returned to the palace, where singing, drumming, and other forms of entertainment continued. The entire town of Osogbo is thrown into a celebratory mood thereafter. The singing of Osun praise poems ( Oriki Osun ) and festival songs ( Orin Odun ), which have a lot of historical significance, is one of the key components of the celebration of the Osun festival . 

Osun Praise Songs and Poems

Poems and songs are extremely essential to the Yoruba culture, and there is never a Yoruba culture without lyrically beautiful traditional melodies. In reality, music serves as a mirror through which the Yoruba culture may be comprehended in its entirety because they use it not only to preserve and convey their past but also to call upon the spirits of their many Orisa. Throughout the two-week Osun celebration, worshipers and followers of the goddess of Osun shout praise and invoke her spirit at various times and locations. As previously mentioned, Osun praise poems and songs are rich in historical references that highlight the role of the Osun goddess in Yoruba cosmic mythology and Osogbo history. Below is a sample from one of those poems that highlight Osun’s significance in Osogbo’s history:

Sholagbade Ewuji, mo kore Yeye f’Osun Taa ni o momo p’Osun Osogbo Nii b’Oba selu Osogbo o? Osun Osogbo ni o ba mi Seyi ni temi.

Meanings: Solagbade Ewuji , I salute the Great Mother, Osun . Who does not know that it is the Osun Osogbo who helps the Oba manage or rule Osogbo? Osun-Osogbo is the one who will help me accomplish this one of mine.

Some of the words in the poem mentioned above depict her historical contributions to the creation, expansion, and development of Osogbo. First, Osun’s designation as the “ Great Mother ” ( Yeye ) in the poem refers to the goddess’ power to cure all types of human illnesses, especially those that affect mothers and young children. It also suggests that she can help infertile men and barren women become parents.

According to Osogbo legends, the goddess assisted Olarooye , the first Ataoja whose wife had difficulty conceiving children, to have children after consuming river water. This was the basis for the myth that the goddess could cure infertility and barrenness, which is why pregnant women flock to the grove during festival celebrations. The poem’s line that “it is Osun who helps the Oba rule Osogbo” refers to the goddess’ maternal role in the founding and development of Osogbo. The residents of Osogbo hold the belief that the Osun goddess generously permitted their forefathers to colonise their land and have since provided protection and security to the community. It is also asserted that the goddess’ continuous power and protection played a role in the fact that Osogbo had never been vanquished or conquered during a conflict. The residents of Osogbo even believe that the goddess actively took part in the famous battle of Osogbo between Ibadan warriors and Fulani Jihadists by disguising herself as a food vendor and tricking the Jihadists into eating poisoned bean cakes, which rendered them incapacitated, in order to fulfil her promise to keep Osogbo safe from invaders.

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Exploring the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove: A Testament to Yoruba Culture and Tradition

Nestled on the outskirts of Osogbo, Nigeria, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove stands as a testament to Yoruba culture and tradition. This ancient forest encompasses the last remnants of the primary high forest in southern Nigeria.

It's also a revered site dedicated to Osun, the goddess of fertility in Yoruba mythology. The grove had special recognition from UNESCO in 2005. Worshipers of the Yoruba faith consider it to be of great significance. It also carries value for Yoruba individuals who have migrated from their origin.

History and Significance

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove has a rich history spanning several centuries. It was once a widespread practice among the Yoruba people to establish sacred groves near their settlements, preserving areas of intact forest for ritual purposes.

These groves served as important cultural and spiritual spaces, embodying the interconnectedness between humans and nature in Yoruba cosmology.

Over time, many of these sacred groves disappeared or diminished in size, making the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove a rare and precious survivor. As the largest of its kind, the forest holds immense cultural and historical value, serving as a living representation of Yoruba sacred groves and their reflection of Yoruba cosmology.

The Grove's Features and Layout

Encompassing an area of 75 hectares, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a sprawling landscape of undisturbed forest. The Osun River intersects the grove, considered the spiritual abode of the river goddess Osun. Along the riverbanks and throughout the forest, visitors can discover forty shrines, sculptures, and artworks dedicated to Osun and other Yoruba deities.

The grove is divided into five main sections, each devoted to different Yoruba deities, and features nine worship points along the river. These worship points serve as specific locations for Yoruba worshippers to engage in spiritual practices, reinforcing their connection with the divine and the natural world.

Suzanne Wenger and the New Sacred Art Movement

In the 20th century, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove experienced a revival thanks to the efforts of Suzanne Wenger, an Austrian artist, and Yoruba priestess.

Wenger was pivotal in developing the New Sacred Art movement, which aimed to protect and restore the grove. By collaborating with local artists, Wenger breathed new life into the sacred site, incorporating modern sculptures that reinforced the links between the Yoruba people and their ancestral spirits.

Wenger's dedication to the grove earned her the "Adunni Olorisha" title and solidified her position as a custodian of Yoruba culture. Her contributions transformed Osogbo into a vibrant hub of artistic activity and sparked a renaissance of Yoruba traditional art.

Annual Osun-Osogbo Festival

One of the most significant events at the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival. This two-week-long celebration takes place in August and attracts thousands of Osun worshippers, spectators, and tourists worldwide.

The festival serves as a cultural reunion, bringing together the people of Osogbo to honor their ancestors and pay homage to the goddess Osun.

The festival is a vibrant display of Yoruba traditions, featuring various rituals and ceremonies. It begins with the traditional cleansing of Osogbo, known as "Iwopopo," followed by the lighting of the sacred sixteen-point lamp called "Ina Olojumerindinlogun."

The crowns of past rulers, the Ataojas of Osogbo, are also assembled in a ceremony called "Iboriade" to receive blessings. The festival's highlight is the procession to the shrine in the sacred grove, accompanied by drumming, dancing, recitation of praise poetry, and the presentation of offerings to Osun.

Conservation Challenges and Efforts

Despite its cultural and historical significance, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove faces several modern challenges. The rapid urbanization of Osogbo puts pressure on land use surrounding the grove, threatening its integrity. Additionally, the pollution of the Osun River due to unregulated mining activities in nearby areas poses a significant risk to the ecosystem.

The Osogbo community and Nigerian heritage authorities have proactively addressed these challenges. Efforts include:

Raising awareness through community activities.

Implementing conservation management plans.

Allocating more funds from the annual festival towards conservation work.

Regular river cleanings have improved water quality, and initiatives to regenerate and replant trees and shrubs have enhanced the biodiversity of the grove.

Tourism and Cultural Relevance

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is vital in Nigeria's tourism sector, attracting visitors from within and around the world. Its cultural significance and unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression make it a captivating destination for those interested in Yoruba culture and spirituality.

Moreover, the festival serves as a unifying force within the Osogbo community, bringing together people of different social, economic, religious, and political backgrounds to celebrate their shared heritage.

The grove is a thriving heritage that preserves Yoruba traditions and indigenous knowledge systems for present generations and the Yoruba diaspora.

Activities at The Site

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria, offers a range of activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and cultural significance. Here are some actions you can enjoy at the sacred grove:

1. Guided Tours:  Take a guided tour of the grove to learn about its history, cultural significance, and associated deities. Knowledgeable guides can provide insights into the rituals, sculptures, and artwork found within the grove.

2. Nature Walks:  Explore the serene surroundings of the grove by taking a leisurely nature walk. Enjoy the lush vegetation, ancient trees, and peaceful atmosphere as you stroll along the trails.

3. Picnicking:  Find a scenic spot within the grove and picnic. Bring along some delicious local snacks or a packed lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings.

4. Photography:  The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove offers numerous photo opportunities. Capture the vibrant sculptures, architectural features, and lush greenery to preserve your memories of this unique place.

5. Cultural Performances:  On special occasions or during festivals, the sacred grove comes alive with traditional performances, dances, and music. Check the local calendar to see if any events are happening during your visit.

6. Shopping:  The grove has small markets for local crafts, artworks, and traditional clothing. Support local artisans and take home a unique souvenir.

7. Relaxation:  Find a quiet spot within the grove to sit, meditate, or relax. The tranquil atmosphere and spiritual aura make it a perfect place to unwind and find inner peace.

Remember to respect the sacred nature of the grove, follow any rules or guidelines provided by the authorities, and be mindful of the environment. Please maximize your time at the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove by exploring its intriguing past and mesmerizing natural landscape. 

How to Get There

Getting to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria, is relatively easy. Here are the general steps to help you get there:

1. By Air:  The closest major airport to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. From there, you can fly to Ibadan Airport or Akure Airport, which is relatively close to Osogbo.

2. By Road:  Osogbo is well connected and can be reached from major cities in Nigeria. If you are coming from Lagos, you can take the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and head towards Osogbo. If you are coming from Ibadan, you can take the Ibadan-Ife Expressway and proceed to Osogbo.

3. Local Transportation:  Once you reach Osogbo, you can hire a taxi or public transportation to contact the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove. Ask for local directions or use a reliable navigation app to locate the site.

4. Entrance and Guided Tours:  The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is open to visitors, and the site has an entrance fee. It is essential to check the visiting hours and any restrictions before your visit. Guided tours are available at the site, providing detailed information about the grove's history, cultural significance, and the associated deities.

5. Safety Precautions:  As with any travel, it is essential to take necessary safety precautions. Ensure you have travel insurance, stay hydrated, and bring sun protection, as the weather can be hot. You should also respect the sacred nature of the grove, follow any rules or guidelines provided by the authorities, and be mindful of the environment.

Remember to plan your visit, check the current situation, and consider the local customs and practices. The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a unique cultural site, and visiting it can be a rewarding experience for those interested in Nigerian heritage and spirituality.

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a remarkable testament to Yoruba culture and tradition. Its preservation and revival through the efforts of individuals like Suzanne Wenger have ensured that this sacred site remains a vibrant hub of spirituality and artistic expression.

The grove offers a sight to behold with its enchanting forests, shrines, and sculptures attracting many visitors. Visitors have the opportunity to attend the Osun-Osogbo Festival, held yearly. One can educate themselves about the Yoruba culture using this method.  

The grove's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its global significance and underscores the need for continued efforts to protect and celebrate this invaluable cultural landscape.

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EXPLORING AFRICAN ART

THE OSUN OSOGBO FESTIVAL

Little wonder would you know how people come from all over the world to grace the Osun Osogbo festival. Over the years, it’s been more than just sacrifices performed to celebrate the Osun River, it has succeeded in becoming an international celebration of cultural events attracting people from all over the world to Osogbo.

You might want to check out these fascinating things when next you’re attending the festival if you have never before. Here are five interesting things to know about the Osun Osogbo festival

The Early Beginning …

The festival came to be as a result of what transpired between the goddess of Osun and a group of travellers. It was said that a group of migrants led by the great hunter, Olutimehin, settled on the bank of the Osun river to save themselves from famine. They had fled because of hunger in their home country. History has it that ‘Yeye’ Osun appeared to Olutimehin and requested him to lead the people up asunder where was to be their promised land and there it was, the present-day Osun Osogbo. The Osun goddess promised them safety and prosperity in turn for an annual sacrifice to her. They obliged her proposition. Hence the Osun Osogbo festival which comes annually every August and whose rites last for two weeks.

The Arugba is the key feature of the Osun Osogbo festival. A young virgin who is to remain so till her tenure is exhausted. She is painted with white dots all over her body. She is then made to carry the calabash which contains the materials for sacrifice to appease and worship the river goddess. The Arugba is seen as a goddess herself and people make their prayers to her and cast all their problems on her as she bears the calabash and leads the people onto the river.

The Sacred Grove

Regarded as the abode of the goddess of fertility, Osun, one of the pantheons of Yoruba gods, the landscape of the grove and its meandering river is dotted with sanctuaries and shrines, sculptures and artworks in honour of Osun and other deities. The sacred grove, which is now seen as a symbol of identity for all Yoruba people, is probably the last in Yoruba culture. Set within the forest sanctuary are forty shrines, sculptures and artworks erected in honour of Osun and other Yoruba deities. Many were created in the past forty years. Two palaces, five sacred places and nine worship points are strung along the river banks with designated priests and priestesses.

Atupa Ina Olujumerindinlogun

Imagine a lamp having 16 eyes and having existed for 600 years. How funny! That itself has become a deity. The Ina Olujumerindinlogun Ritual involves the lighting of a 16 point lamp which is believed to have existed for 600 years after the “iwopopo” ritual is performed. Lighting the 16 point lamp is an important aspect of the Osun Osogbo festival. A carnival night featuring dances and music from various dance groups within Osogbo land, whereupon the lamp is lit. The king dances round the lamp twice and on the third round, accompanied by his chiefs, they take the dance rite around the city and before they return, the lamps were put off and replaced to where they were kept until the following year.

Two things must not happen when lighting or putting off the lights: one the lights must not go out before the king dances around it twice. Secondly, they must have been put off before the king returned from touring the city with his palace chiefs. A palace chief is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring these are done right. 

To the Osogbo people, the lighting of the lamp reminds them of their ties to the Osogbo deity. It is a time to renew and strengthen the ancestral bonds.

Susanne Wenger

The story wouldn’t be complete without this hero; Susanne Wenger, an Austrian who devoted her life since the 1950s to restoring the glory of the shrines. She renovated and sculpted the gods representing 75 gods in cultural artefacts. Wenger stopped people from felling trees or hunting or fishing and personally rebuilt the customary shrines and groves again till her death. Wenger later came to be titled Adunni Olorisha for her custodial efforts and her consistent devotion to the gods of the grove.

It is taboo to fall trees, fish or hunt near the groove. Susanne will always be remembered for her effort in preserving the groove.

Aside from the sacrifices to the goddess Osun, it is also a celebration of cultural events. Many business organizations and companies now take part in the celebration. Osun Osogbo remains a dynamic religion today and preserves the cultural heritage of the Yorubas. It also creates a communal relationship among the people of the world. What a festival!

Oluwatimileyin Emmanuel

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Osun Osogbo: History Behind Festival and How a Clean Young Lady Always Plays Vital Role

Traditional festivals are an essential part of a country's tourism. This is because they demonstrate the peculiarity that always sparks the curiosity of international audiences.

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One can say they also play a huge role in a nation's revenue generation because when they draw in visitors, the country's economy improves as retailing booms.

Osun Osogbo is one of many tourist attractions in Nigeria. Apart from its religious essence, the festival is also an avenue to learn about culture and tradition.

How the festival all began

Though there are no specific dates on when the traditional celebration started, BBC News has it that the first could be traced to 600 years ago and it is said to be the biggest festival of the Yorubas. No wonder people who identify with the Yoruba root always come from far and near to celebrate every year.

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A report on the story behind the festival stated that a group of people headed by a great hunter called Olutimehin took shelter at the bank of the Osun river as a way to rescue himself and his people from famine.

While he was there, he had an instruction from the spiritual world to take his people to a place that is now known as Osogbo. The celebration is therefore in celebration of that mandate and in thanksgiving of the prosperity the migrants got. In 2003, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognised the festival.

Osun Osogbo celebration rites

One of the main things people look forward to is the Arugba (calabash carrier). Every year, a virgin lady is chosen to perform this duty. She is believed to be the link between the deity and Osun devotees. In her calabash are contents of sacrifices offered to the Osun river.

3 times people's stories of humble beginnings inspired many online, 1 person is selling popcorn

During the procession to the river, the virgin carries a calabash that is covered with a colourful cloth. Before the journey to the river begins, worshippers must first pray at the shrine.

The Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba jimoh Olanipekun, always plays a big role as he is the chief host. Kings from neighbouring communities visit him during the festival.

Speaking with Sacred Journeys , a pilgrim of the festival, Diedre Badejo said:

"I think anybody who goes on a sacred journey, anyone who ventures into another tradition is a soul searcher. They are seeking to find something within themselves they're trying to connect to."

The role of Suanne Wenger

Though the festival suffered a bit, it started becoming popular again in the 1980s. An Austrian-born aritist, Susanne Wenger helped in that regard . After her arrival in Nigeria in the 1950s, she decided to stay in Osogbo for the rest of her life.

Grass to stardom: Talented Nigerian youth with 20 siblings rises to fame

During her lifetime, she helped to rebuild the shrines and also contributed to getting the groves protected.

Man in Osogbo dresses as Spider-Man

Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that a young Nigerian man, Jonathan Olakunle, goes around Osogbo in a Spider-Man outfit as he cleans the streets.

Olakunle revealed that every neighbourhood needs somebody like him. The young man said though he started environmental sanitation in 2004, he began going around sometime later.

He stated that he decided to work in a Spider-Man outfit because it draws people’s attention to what he is doing.

Source: Legit.ng

Joseph Omotayo (HOD Human-Interest) Joseph Omotayo has been writing for the human interest desk since 2019 and is currently the head of the desk. He graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with a degree in Literature in English in 2016. He once worked for Afridiaspora, OlisaTV & CLR. He is a 2022/2023 Kwame Karikari Fact-Checking fellow. He can be reached via: [email protected].

InfoGuideNigeria.com

The significance of osun oshogbo festival.

Introduction

Festival remains one of the cultural heritage of every society, It aptly defines the cultural background of a group, It is a cultural and religious way of celebration.

It depicts so many things ranging from the cultural ideology, idea and philosophy, It also shows the greatness and awesomeness of some spiritual beings as some of these festivals are celebrated in remembrance of certain deified beings in some instances.

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Festival is an event or community gathering, usually staged by a local community, which centres on some theme, sometimes on some unique aspect of the community.

On the contrary, it identifies a set of celebrations in the honour of a god. The word “Festival” was adapted from the Old French festival, from ll. fēstīvālis, and from Latin fēstīvus.

According to the Wikipedia, A festival is an event ordinarily celebrated by a community and centring on some characteristic aspect of that community and its religion or traditions.

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It is often marked as a local or national holiday, mela , or eid . Next to religion and folklore, a significant origin is agricultural. Food is such a vital resource that many festivals are associated with harvest time.

Religious commemoration and thanksgiving for good harvests are blended in events that take place in autumn, such as Halloween in the northern hemisphere and Easter in the southern.

Festivals often serve to fulfill specific communal purposes, especially in regard to commemoration or thanksgiving. The celebrations offer a sense of belonging for religious, social, or geographical groups, contributing to group cohesiveness .

They may also provide entertainment , which was particularly important to local communities before the advent of mass-produced entertainment.

Festivals that focus on cultural or ethnic topics also seek to inform community members of their traditions, the involvement of elders sharing stories and experience provides a means for unity among families.

In Ancient Greece and Rome , festivals such as the Saturnalia were closely associated with social organisation and political processes as well as religion.

In modern times, festivals may be attended by strangers such as tourists, who are attracted to some of the more eccentric or historical ones.

The Etymology Of The Word “Festival”

According to the Wikipedia, the word “festival” was originally used as an adjective from the late fourteenth century, deriving from Latin via Old French.

In Middle English, a “festival dai” was a religious holiday. Its first recorded used as a noun was in 1589 (as “Festifall”). Feast first came into usage as a noun circa 1200, and its first recorded use as a verb was circa 1300.

The term “feast” is also used in common in secular parlance as a synonym for any large or elaborate meal. When used as in the meaning of a festival, most often refers to a religious festival rather than a film or art festival.

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In the Philippines and many other former Spanish colonies, the Spanish word fiesta is used to denote a communal religious feast to honour a patron saint.

From the above, It is easily understandable that festivals have religious connotations and background in some cases, also, It sometimes depicts artistic events, It is also associated with agriculture in the case of food harvest.

A typical example of the religious festival is the Eid Celebration, Christmas Celebration, Ogun Celebration and so on, In the case of art, we have Music Festival, Science Festival, Literary Festival, Under agriculture, we have Yam Festival, Peanut Festival and so on.

Thus, Festival is more than a cultural element as it is also associated with and attached to various other events in real life situation.

Festivals also includes the organisation of food for the entire members of a community, In short, it is communally recognised.

One of these festivals that has a great significance and impact in cultural world in general and in the Yoruba tribe in particular is the Osun Oshogbo Festival.

The Constitution Of Osun Oshogbo Festival

Osun Oshogbo festival is one of the biggest and magnanimous festivals celebrated in Yoruba land as it has a very long and old origin, It could be dated back to the period of our ancient ancestors in Yoruba tribe particularly the land of Osun.

This festival has attained a prominent status in the history of Yorubas, It is a communal event that is not just considered to be seasonal but also runs through the veins of the very community all the year.

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Ifa “Oracle” consultation is very crucial before the celebration of any festival in Yoruba land as to determine when they are to be celebrated.

Although Osun Festival is pronounced and done in Oshogbo but it’s worship is central and transverses all towns in Yoruba land.

Osun Oshogbo groove has been adopted as a world intangible cultural heritage site of humanity by UNESCO, and it is one of the first of such to be adopted in West Africa entirely.

The origin of Osun Oshogbo is connected with the town of Oshogbo itself, and as such there are many traditions of the origin of this festival.

Osun which is the goddess is a sacred denominator to this festival. Osun Oshogbo is an embodiment of the river that flows through Oshogbo land.

According to Oluponna (1991), “It is a riverine of fertility and the only female divinity among the sixteen deities who were assigned and chosen by the Olodumare to the organisation and planning of the material human world”.

This festival is usually celebrated in the month of August as a medium of remembering the past ancestors through rituals and seeking solution to problems.

Iwopopo is an event that marks the commencement of the festival, which connotes the official clearing of the roads from the palace to Osun shrine at Gbaemu area of Oshogbo, this exercise serves the physical and spiritual sanitation functions.

It is celebrated for twelve days and one of the significant event of the festival is the “Etutu” the peaceful ritual, done as a way of remembering the past Ataojas (Monarchs) of Oshogbo land and ensuring peace and harmonious relationship between the dwellers of this community.

This ritual culminates in the lightning of sixteen point lamp (Atupa Oloju Merindinlogun) mounted on a standing metal of about seventeen centimetres high.

The ritual movement is led by the Ataoja (Monarch) himself, a votary maid (Arugba Osun) who must be a virgin within the age limit of 13 – 16 from the royal family will carry the ritual calabash to the Osun groove.

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Conclusively , the King will climb a rock situated in the river with his palms spread out to welcome the Osun fish, which usually comes out to receive the sacrifice from the King, It was from this occurrence the King derived his title Ataja or Atewogbeja, and then the whole town of Oshogbo begins the celebration properly and this marks the end of the festival.

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Osun Osogbo: A Celebration of Cultural Heritage

Osun Osogbo Festival

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OSUN OSOGBO FESTIVAL

29th july - 9th august 2024.

Osun is also the patron saint of the Osun river in Nigeria: the river which bears her name. It flows through the city of Osogbo, where the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, the principal sanctuary of the deity can be found

Marks a time of renewal and community spirit. The festival brings people together to celebrate their shared heritage and values.

Embrace Culture and Unity at the Osun-Osogbo Festival! Celebrate the Osun Osogbo festival with us. An opportunity to engage in a tradition embraced by over 20 million people worldwide.

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Visitors share their experiences

The Osun Osogbo festival captivates many with its vibrant traditions honoring the Osun rich cultural heritage. Attendees describe a sense of unity and spiritual upliftment.

A profound sense of spiritual awakening as they enter the sacred Osun Grove during the festival. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the rhythmic sounds of traditional rituals, creates a powerful and mystical ambiance. Pilgrims feel a deep connection to the divine and a sense of spiritual renewal as they partake in ceremonies honoring the Osun River goddess.

One of the most visually striking aspects of the Osun-Osogbo Festival is the vibrant and colorful processions that wind their way through the streets of Osogbo. Participants, adorned in traditional Yoruba attire, showcase a kaleidoscope of colors, fabrics, and beadwork. The lively parades contribute to the festive atmosphere and offer a captivating spectacle for both locals and visitors.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival is also a feast for the senses, with an abundance of traditional Yoruba cuisine. Festival-goers can indulge in a variety of dishes, from the popular jollof rice to local specialties like pounded yam and egusi soup. The communal aspect of sharing meals enhances the sense of togetherness, as people from diverse backgrounds come together to enjoy the culinary delights of the festival.

The festival serves as a hub for local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship. Intricately designed beads, handwoven textiles, and beautifully carved sculptures are on display. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase unique, handmade items, supporting the local economy and taking home tangible reminders of the festival's cultural richness.

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Fury Over Award Of Osun Osogbo Festival’s Contract To Non-Yoruba Firm

• Published August 2, 2024

STAKEHOLDERS in Osun State have expressed displeasure over an allegation that major contracts pertaining to the 2024 Osun Osogbo Festival were awarded to a firm that belongs to a non-Yoruba person.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that according to the aggrieved stakeholders, some state governments in the South West have been fond of giving out vital contracts to consulting firms and agencies owned by people who are not from the region.

Citing the particular case of the award of marketing rights of the Osun Osogbo festival to a non-indigenous agency, the stakeholders held that the development contradicts the historical dignity of the Yoruba race and sounds sacrilegious.

They, therefore called for the immediate revocation of the contract, saying that the involvement of an Igbo company undermines the festival’s authenticity and values to Yoruba heritage.

But reacting to the development, the Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Olawale Rasheed, described the news linking Governor Adeleke to the award of the contract to a non-indigene as fake.

READ: Osun LG Poll: Chairmanship Candidates To Pay N500,000 Nomination Fees

“We seek to clarify clearly that neither the governor nor the state government is the organiser of Osun Osogbo festival. Those who need information on Osun Osogbo festival are directed to reach out to the Ataoja in-Council,” he said.

Also, the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Adebisi Olawale, said he did not know the aspect of the festival that was contracted out because there are many aspects to the festival. 

He said: “There are never a time other members of ethnic groups partake in any contractual aspect of the festival.”

However, a source within the Ataoja’s palace who craved anonymity in a telephone interview with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday, said the allegation may be the handiwork of mischief makers.

The source said the consultancy application for the Osun Osogbo festival was thrown open for different for firms to apply, saying the qualified one was selected at the end of a thorough process.

“We made the application open for everyone to apply and the one who can offer us the best was selected based on their experience without discriminating. We cannot choose someone who cannot give us the best because he or she is from Osun or Yoruba.

“Those who are aggrieved are the ones who were not selected for the consultancy of the festival,” the source said.

 Also, a staff of the Osun/Osogbo grove who do not want his name in print told OSUN DEFENDER that the person handling the project is not an Igbo as being spread in the media. 

The staff noted that the consultant handling the project is a half-caste, saying others are furious because they are not favoured for the contract.

Yusuf Oketola is a trained journalist with over five years of experience in the media industry. He has worked for both print and online medium. He is a thorough-bred professional with an eye of hindsight on issues bothering on social justice, purposeful leadership, and a society where the leaders charge and work for the prosperity of the people.

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