The annual Osun-Osogbo Cultural Festival kicked off on Monday with the ‘cleansing of paths’ popularly known as ‘Iwopopo’.
During the event, traditional chiefs, Osun devotees, government officials, individuals and groups in the town paid homage to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun.
At the event held at Gbaemu Junction, Osogbo, the monarch, flanked by his wives, was observed praying for different groups and individuals who paid homage to him.
Among those who paid homage to the Ataoja was the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Ojo Abiodun, who promised the state government’s support for the festival.
The commissioner who prayed for the monarch, said the present administration under Governor Ademola Adeleke holds the Osogbo community in high esteem.
“I am here to pay homage to our royal father, and I want to assure you that our government will visit you soon, and we will do what is expected of us”, Abiodun stated.
Responding, Oba Olanipekun prayed for the success of the Adeleke administration.
Oba Olanipekun said, “I want to let you know that I am praying for the administration. May you continue to witness more success.
“The state will continue to move forward, and by God’s grace, we will not hear or witness any bad occurrence in our land.
“This year’s Osun Osogbo will bring more joy to our people, and I pray for the success of the state government.”