Princess Alimot Moredeke Ajoke Osunbunmi, a 10-year-old from the Ataoja of Osogbo's royal household, has been confirmed as the Arugba for the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival, following an Ifa oracle consultation in March 2025. She will lead the festival's procession from August 7 to 19, 2026, at the UNESCO-listed Osun Sacred Grove in Osogbo, though she will not carry the sacred calabash due to her age.
Selection and Background
The Ifa oracle identified Princess Alimot as the chosen maiden to serve the Osun deity, succeeding Osuntomi Ewatomi, whose tenure ended upon her marriage, as tradition requires the Arugba to remain unmarried and of royal lineage. Princess Alimot stepped into the role shortly after her predecessor's departure.
The Arugba holds a spiritually significant position in Yoruba tradition, acting as the living bridge between the Osun River goddess and her worshippers, carrying prayers, sacrifices, and collective hopes to the sacred grove. The sacred calabash she traditionally bears contains ritual offerings presented at the grove during the festival.
Adjustments for Age
At just 10 years old, Princess Alimot is among the youngest to hold the title in recent memory. During the 2025 festival, she led the procession but did not carry the calabash; instead, Baba Osun (Adesina), the male chief priest, took on that responsibility. Traditionalists explained this arrangement was made in consideration of her age, and she is expected to carry the calabash in future editions as she matures into the role.
Public Reactions
Netizens on X shared mixed reactions. @bymbohbam asked, "Please What date is Osun-Osogbo this year, would really love to attend." @Oba Of Africa said, "May God bless her and may the ancestors be with her as she proceeds as the next Arugba." @TemiladeGold2 commented, "I wish to be there but funds to enjoy there."
Related Incident
In a separate event, a young woman named Wasilat, who appeared in a viral video performing rites at the Oloolu compound in Ibadan, is alive and has returned home, according to documentary photographer Ayo Adams. Adams disclosed on X that the compound's secretary confirmed Wasilat's recovery after she secretly filmed a crowd and later reported health deterioration attributed to her action.
