OLOJO 2019: Ooni Wears Ancient Aare Crown, As Buhari Charges Nigerians To Focus On Culture For Socioeconomic Advancement
Segun Akanni, Toronto, Canada 
The Arole Oodua & Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi on Saturday came appeared to the public after 7 days in seclusion with the ancient Aare crown as the annual Olojo festival 2019 took place in Ile Ife.
Flanked by his beautiful queen, Olori Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi(Yeyeluwa), the Ooni who is the natural father of the Yoruba race worldwide appeared to the waiting crowd in an all-white traditional attire with colourful beads shortly before wearing Aare crown which was handed down by Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race.
On setting their eyes on the foremost African monarch, the waiting crown who were aware of the huge spiritual implications of the crown raised their voices in prayers as the Ooni equally prayed for them before walking down to the Oke Mogun and Idi Aje shrines to offer prayers.
Earlier in his Address, President Muhammadu Buhari who was represented by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola described culture as major factor that should be adopted by Nigerians to define their identities towards playing vital roles in nation building.
“This administration has been making frantic efforts to support the diverse cultural values of Nigerians, our people should focus on these values and use it for human and economic development.” Buhari said.
On his personal message, Aregbesola who is the immediate past governor of the state acknowledged the modern twist to the event, thanking the Ooni for upholding the prestigious African culture.
Similarly, Governor of the State of Osun, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola described the festival as a mirror of the African cultural values.
Represented by his Deputy, Gboyega Alabi, the Governor noted that his administration is committed to ensure that people of the state use culture to design the development of the state.
Other dignitaries at the event were, the Obi of Awka (Anambra State) Eze Austin Ngwu, Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Oyedotun, Oba Alara of Aramoko Ekiti, Oba Ajero of Ijero, Speaker of Osun State Assembly, Consular General of Netherlands, Timothy Owoeye, traditionalists, foreigners among others.
