PRESS STATEMENT.
(26TH SEPTEMBER, 2026).
*Osun APC Celebrates Ooni, Ife People On 2026 Olojo Festival*
The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has felicitated His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the royal institution of Ile-Ife, traditional rulers, sons and daughters of the ancient town as they celebrate this year’s Olojo Festival.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Information of the Osun State APC, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, today, the state chairman of the party, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, described the Olojo Festival as a profound celebration of the history, spirituality, culture and enduring identity of Ile-Ife, widely regarded as the cradle of the Yoruba civilization.
The chairman, fondly described as the Prince of the Source, noted that the Olojo occupies a unique place in Yoruba history because it connects the present generation with the ancestral heritage of Odùduwà and the ancient traditions that have been preserved through generations.
Lawal stated further that the festival is also associated with the sacred rites surrounding the Ooni’s annual appearance in the Aare Crown, an important symbol of the Ife royal and spiritual heritage.
He congratulated the Ooni for his continued commitment to preserving and projecting the rich cultural heritage of Ile-Ife to Nigeria and the world.
The state APC chairman observed that the growing international interest in the Olojo Festival demonstrates the enduring relevance of Ife’s history and the importance of safeguarding indigenous traditions for future generations.
He particularly commended the Ooni’s spiritual preparation for the 2026 festival, including the traditional period of seclusion preceding the public celebrations.
The 2026 Olojo Festival runs from September 24 to 28, with a series of cultural, traditional and spiritual activities culminating in the grand finale.
According to the statement: “The Olojo is more than a festival; it is a living expression of the history, spirituality, resilience and identity of our people.
“It reminds us of the responsibility we have to preserve the heritage handed down to us by our ancestors and to transmit it with dignity to generations yet unborn”, Lawal stated.
The Osun APC also joined the Ooni, the royal houses, traditional institutions and the entire people of Ile-Ife in praying for peace, unity, prosperity and sustainable development across Ile-Ife, Osun State and Nigeria.
The party urged the residents and visitors participating in the festival to continue to uphold peace, mutual respect and the sanctity of the ancient city.
It further acknowledged the role of the Olojo Festival in promoting cultural tourism and strengthening the connection between Ile-Ife, the Yoruba people and the Africans in the diaspora.
The 2026 edition of the festival has attracted cultural enthusiasts and visitors while showcasing the heritage and traditions of the ancient city.
The Osun State APC, therefore, wishes the Ooni Ogunwusi, the royal institution, traditional rulers, sons and daughters of Ile-Ife, and all the visitors to the Source a peaceful, successful and memorable 2026 Olojo Festival.
*e-SIGNED:*
*Mogaji KOLA OLABISI, Osun State APC Director of Media and Information*
