Economic Hardship: Be patient with President Tinubu — Ooni of Ife urges Nigerians as he begins a seven-day seclusion and communication with ‘spirits’

South-West monarch, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on Nigerians to “remain patient” with the administration of President Bola Tinubu as the country navigates through challenging times.

Speaking ahead of his seven-day seclusion, where he is set to pray and commune with the ancestors, the monarch expressed concerns over the hardship many citizens are currently facing. Oba Ogunwusi acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians are enduring, noting that the present situation is a testing period for the nation.

This was contained in a statement released on Monday, by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, which said as part of traditional rites, the Ooni will spend a week in seclusion, seeking divine intervention for Nigeria’s well-being. According to Olafare, the monarch before going into seclusion, said the rite is the most sacred moment for him on the throne which he utilises to interact with his ancestors and pray for the people, the Oduduwa race worldwide, as well as mankind in general.

The statement read, “This time around, I want to pray and seek for the face of our Creator to intervene on the current economic situation. Things are very tough and people are feeling the hardship, I want to pray for all and sundry and specially urge the youths to exercise patience so that we will not use our hands to destr%y our country.” 

Ooni said, “I know that people are passing through difficult periods in which they are not finding life easy and truly this is a challenging period. But I know that after this festival, normalcy will return to the country, as the problems we’re facing will soon come to an end.

Oba Ogunwusi urged the Tinubu government to do more to serve the populace by making bountiful dividends of democracy for the citizenry. It said, “The seclusion usually precedes the annual Olojo celebrations, which allows the Ooni to withdraw from the human distractions. It is usually marked by silence, reflection, and spiritual cleansing, allowing him to focus solely on the divine communication with the spirits.

During this time, he undertakes solemn prayers and makes offerings, not only on behalf of the Yoruba race but for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the entire nation. It is a time of deep intercession, seeking the favour of the gods for good harvests, protection, and guidance for his people,” he said.

“Oba Ogunwusi will be marking his 9th edition of the Olojo festival on Saturday 28th when he will be appearing to the public with the sacred Crown of Oduduwa known as ‘Ade Are’ worn once a year to commemorate the first day of the mankind,” Olafare added.