The sacred city of Osogbo bursts with life today as thousands of worshippers, tourists, and culture lovers converge to celebrate the grand finale of the Osun-Osogbo Festival — a ritual steeped in Yoruba tradition — www.naijnaira.com reports.
According to PUNCH Online, this festival stands among Nigeria’s most enduring cultural events, reflecting centuries of spiritual devotion to the goddess Osun.
Security forces, including the Nigerian Police and Civil Defence Corps, maintain tight control around the Osun Sacred Grove, ensuring safety as the event peaks.
At the core of today’s rites is the Arugba’s sacred procession. This virgin maiden carries offerings to the Osun River, symbolizing the renewal of the ancient bond between the people and the goddess Osun.
Visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora have filled roads and hotels, boosting local commerce with vendors thriving amid the crowds.
Organizers confirmed the grand finale marks the festival’s high point after two weeks of sacred ceremonies that began with the town-cleansing Iwopopo and the lighting of the sixteen-point lamp, Ina Olojumerindinlogun.
The festival, now in its 700th year, also features the Iboriade, where crowns of former Ataojas receive blessings, and the final thanksgiving dance, Ikoesirodo, performed by the Arugba and priestesses.
These powerful rituals culminate in a colorful procession of music, dance, and prayers at the UNESCO-listed Osun Sacred Grove, drawing spiritual pilgrims and cultural enthusiasts worldwide.
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
