Princess Alimot Moredeke Ajoke Osunbunmi, the 10-year-old Arugba of the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, has carried the sacred calabash for the first time during the traditional procession to the Osun Sacred Grove in Osogbo, Osun State.
Friday’s procession marked a historic milestone in the young princess’s tenure as the Arugba, following her inability to perform the sacred duty during the 2025 festival because of her age.
Princess Alimot was chosen as the new Arugba through traditional Ifa divination in March 2025, succeeding Osuntomi Ewatomi, who served in the revered role for approximately 12 years before stepping down after her marriage, in keeping with tradition.
Before the annual procession, cultural content creator Wàá Ṣeré announced on X that the young Arugba had successfully completed the traditional Ifa rites and spiritual preparations required to undertake the sacred responsibility.
“The Arugba has been fortified! Ìdáfá Arugba is now done and dusted. Arugba takes the required sacrifice to Èṣù on behalf of the whole of the land of Òṣogbo,” the post read.
The post further expressed anticipation for the procession, stating: “Tomorrow, she carries the sacred calabash of Ọ̀ṣun to the motherly spirit that dwells in fresh waters. Ore Yèyé Ọ̀ṣun o!”
The Arugba occupies one of the most significant roles in the centuries-old Osun-Osogbo Festival. During the grand procession, she carries the sacred calabash believed to contain offerings and prayers from the people to the Osun deity, symbolising peace, blessings, fertility and prosperity for the community.
The annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, recognised by UNESCO as an important cultural heritage celebration, attracts thousands of worshippers, tourists, traditional rulers and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and around the world to celebrate Yoruba culture, spirituality and tradition.
