Osun APC Chairman, Sooko Lawal Celebrates Yoruba Heritage, Congratulates Ooni of Ife on Olojo Festival

The Osun State APC Chairman, Sooko Lawal Tajudeen Olaniyi has extended his heartfelt congratulations to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Babatunde Akande Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, in celebration of the Olojo Festival 2024.

In a formal goodwill message issued by the Media and Publicity Office of the Osun State APC Chairman, Sooko Walamo, commended the Ooni for his efforts in preserving Yoruba culture and promoting the values and heritage of the Yoruba people. He emphasized that the Olojo Festival is a global celebration of Yoruba heritage and a tribute to the Black race, with the Ooni playing a crucial role in maintaining its relevance and prominence.

"The Olojo Festival is not only a celebration of the ancient traditions of the Yoruba people but also an event that connects all sons and daughters of Ife across the globe. It is a source of pride for the Black race, and I commend the Ooni's dedication to its preservation," said Sooko Lawal.

The Osun APC Chairman also extended his congratulations to the *High Chiefs of Ife*, acknowledging their essential roles in upholding the cultural significance of the festival. He specifically honored *High Chief Osogun of Ife, Chief Oladapo Olafiranye*, for his contributions to the successful celebration of the Olojo Festival. The Osun State APC Chairman was emphatic in appreciating the steez  and refinement of the High Chief Osogun towards his traditional duties and Olojo Festival without compromising our historical and traditional standards.

In the statement, the Chairman also extended his message of felicitation to the entire people of Ife, both at home and diaspora. Beyond sharing the joy of the occasion with them, he also charged them to remain committed to the preservation and upliftment of Ife history, culture and heritage.

Celebrated annually in *Ile-Ife*, Osun State, the *Olojo Festival* is one of the most revered cultural events in Yoruba land. The festival marks the dawn of creation and celebrates the deities, symbolizing the unity and shared history of the Yoruba people. As Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi has previously remarked, the festival is a profound celebration of not only Yoruba identity but also the collective strength and heritage of the global Black community.

Sooko Lawal did not also mince words as he   highlighted the importance of the festival, describing it as an event that fosters unity and pride among Yoruba people worldwide.

*Signed,*

Media and Publicity,  

Office of the Chairman,  

All Progressives Congress,

 Osun State Chapter.