Ooni goes into seclusion as Olojo festival begins

All hands are ondeck to make the 2011 annual Olojo festival a colourful one in Ile-Ife, as the traditional ruler of the ancient town, Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, goes into absolute seclusion for five days.During this period, the royal father is forbidden from eating, drinking and interacting with mortals while his wives, children and servants would not be allowed to reach him.In a statement, the royal father's spokesperson, Chief Funmilola Olorunnisola, explained that Ooni had begun the seclusion since yesterday.Chief Olorunnisola stated that the period, according to tradition, 'is to enable him muster spiritual strength required to wear the Aare crown which is believed to be very heavy.'The statement also said that the festival would run through the week beginning from October 24 to October 31, 2011, adding that the social segment of the festival begins with Gbajue and town storming while the core traditional event begins with Ilagun on Friday.It stated further that the grand finale that would see Ooni wearing the sacred Aare crown is expected to hold on Saturday, October 29, 2011.'The festival ends on Monday, October 31 when the Ooni, after leading the town's people to pray at Okemogun for the second time, will visit his ruling house at Ilare quarters and a number of other places of interest in Ile-Ife,'the statement added.Other events lined up for this year's Olojo Festival include a special lecture series entitled: 'Yoruba Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow' to be delivered by Reverend Sam Adesua, Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, African Newspapers of Nigeria plc.Oba Bolu Fatunmise, the Adagba of Iyanfoworogi, will also speak on the topic 'Deities of Ife' (Awon Orisa Ile-Ife), Dr S.A. Olasupo of Obafemi Awolowo University will speak on 'Female Kings in Yorubaland'Omidan Olojo competition will also feature during the festival.The statement furthersaid that the royal father congratulated the obas, chiefs and the entire people of Ife on the occasion of the annual festival and appealed to all sons and daughters of the town to be law-abiding and peaceful during the celebration which will attract people from far and near.
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