The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has warned Nigerian politicians against allowing personal and partisan interests to threaten the country’s unity, sovereignty and democratic process, stressing that political power is only temporary.
The monarch gave the warning on Sunday shortly before entering a seven-day spiritual seclusion ahead of the 2026 Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State, saying Nigeria’s survival and the welfare of its citizens must remain more important than political differences.
The Ooni, who is Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as non-interference in the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission, saying such an approach could help strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
He urged political leaders to remember that occupants of political offices would eventually leave and be succeeded by others, warning against actions or utterances that could undermine national cohesion.
“Some have ruled this country before as political leaders, and others will come after them,” the Ooni said, urging politicians to focus on the larger national interest.
He added: “We should know ultimately that Nigeria is bigger than all of us. It is very important for our political leaders to always look inwardly on how to better the lot of the average Nigerians.”
The monarch also praised Osun residents for participating in the recently concluded governorship election, describing the ballot as an avenue through which citizens exercise their right to determine who governs them.
He said Nigerians should continue to have the opportunity to make their choices freely through the democratic process, while revealing that his prayers during the seclusion would include the country’s democracy and preparations for future elections.
The Ooni’s remarks came as he commenced the traditional seven-day seclusion preceding the Olojo Festival, a major cultural and spiritual celebration associated with Ile-Ife and the Yoruba people.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the monarch will use the period to pray for peace, unity and sustainable progress in Nigeria.
The spiritual exercise will also enable the Ooni to deepen his connection with his ancestors and prepare for the sacred rites associated with the festival, including the annual wearing of the Aare Crown.
With the monarch’s seclusion, the spiritual phase of the 2026 Olojo Festival has commenced, ahead of the ceremonies scheduled to culminate in his appearance in the sacred crown.
