Osun

Olufon Calls For Preservation Of Yoruba Culture

ByOlamilekan Adigun

PublishedAugust 10, 2025

The Olufon of Ifon-Osun in Orolu local government of Osun State, Oba Peter Ipadeola, has reiterated the significance of preserving the kingdom’s age-long culture and heritage.

Oba Ipadeola emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations, noting that Yoruba culture must not go into extinction.

The monarch made the call on August 05, during the grand finale of the 2025 Ọdún-Adé Orolu Cultural Festival.

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the monarch, Akeeb Yusuf, Olufon, during the festival, prayed for peace in Nigeria and Osun State.

The week-long celebration, which started on August 01, was to showcase the tradition, faith, unity, and cultural pride of Ifon-Osun.

According to the statement, the grand finale began with the sacred Ọ̀ṣẹ̀ Obatala rites at dawn after which the Olufon’s sacred crowns were displayed, followed by traditional homage and rituals.

The statement added that the revered Adé Ṣẹ́sẹ́-Ẹfun was ritually placed upon the king’s head, followed by a grand traditional procession from the palace courtyard to Jamodo Junction and back, culminating in collective ìwúre.

The statement noted that esteemed Ifá priest, Ifayemi Elebuibon delivered a lecture on “The Position of Obatala in the Yoruba Race from the Ifá Perspective”, citing ancient odù Ifá to affirm Obatala’s spiritual supremacy, during the week-long celebration.

Giving further insight on how the event went, the statement said, “The celebration commenced with the sacred Ọ̀ṣẹ̀ Obatala symbolising purity, peace, and divine blessings for the land. In the afternoon, the palace courtyard resounded with rhythmic energy as traditional drumming troupes converged for Èdè Àyàn, a thrilling drumming competition where the top three groups emerged in a spirited display of mastery and heritage.”

“There was a Yorùbá language quiz and debate competition among primary and secondary school students on the second day. Also, renowned historian Professor Siyan Oyeweso, assisted by two eminent Doctors of History, delivered a soul-stirring lecture on “The Position of Obatala in the Yoruba Race from Historical Perspective.”

“There was a thanksgiving service at First Baptist Church, Ifon-Osun, where the Olufon; joined by the Ataoja of Osogboland, the Alagọ-Amodu of Agọ-Amodu in Oyo State, the Alabere of Abere, and other traditional rulers, led prayers for the peace and progress of the kingdom. Upon returning to the palace, traditional worshippers from across Orolu Kingdom performed sacred rites and offered extensive ìwúre (prayers).”

Royal fathers who graced the event included the Timi of Ede, Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Olojudo of Ido-Osun, and Elerin of Erin-Osun, Olokinni of Okinni, Alago-Amodu, alongside several other monarchs from within and outside Osun State.

Olamilekan Adigun

Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.