The Oluroki of Dagbolu, Osogbo, His Royal Highness (HRH) Oba Oyebode Solagbade Sule, has extended warm congratulations to the Ataoja of Osogboland, His Majesty (HRM) Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II, on the successful conduct of the Iwo Popo Royal Procession, the traditional rite that heralds the commencement of the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival.
In a congratulatory message issued following the colourful procession held on Monday, July 27, 2026, Oba Oyebode described the success of the Iwo Popo as another significant milestone in preserving the rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions of the people of Osogbo.
The Oluroki noted that the annual Iwo Popo procession remains one of the most revered traditional events in Osogboland, bringing together members of the royal family, traditional chiefs, market men and women, community associations, cultural groups and residents in a united display of loyalty, prayers and commitment to the progress of the ancient town.
According to the monarch, the gathering provided an opportunity for the people to offer fervent prayers for the Ataoja of Osogboland, seeking divine wisdom, good health, long life and continued strength for the royal father as he leads the kingdom. He also observed that prayers were offered for sustained peace, accelerated development, prosperity and the successful celebration of the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival.
Oba Oyebode commended the Ataoja for his exemplary leadership, dedication to the preservation of Yoruba culture and unwavering commitment to promoting harmony among the people of Osogboland. He stated that the peaceful and well-organised procession reflected the unity and collective resolve of the people to uphold their cherished customs and traditions.
The Oluroki further expressed confidence that this year's Osun-Osogbo Festival would attract visitors, tourists and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and around the world, while showcasing the unique cultural identity, hospitality and historical significance of Osogbo.
He prayed that the remaining activities of the festival would be celebrated peacefully and successfully, with abundant blessings for Osogboland, Osun State and Nigeria as a whole.
Oba Oyebode also called on residents, visitors and all stakeholders to continue supporting the Ataoja and the festival organisers by maintaining peace, respecting the sanctity of the cultural celebrations and promoting the values of unity, love and communal development that define the Osun-Osogbo Festival.
The Iwo Popo Royal Procession is one of the major traditional rites preceding the grand Osun-Osogbo Festival and serves as a spiritual and cultural platform where the people collectively seek divine blessings for the Ataoja, the kingdom and the continued progress and peaceful coexistence of Osogboland.
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