Ooni-elect begins installation rites in Ilofi

THE rites for installation of the Ooni-designate, Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, began yesterday in seclusion in Ilofi, the traditional place where an appointed monarch in Ife kingdom is expected to receive tutelage for kingship.

The new monarch, sources said yesterday, would spend 21 days in solitary confinement for the task.

The period of tutelage, which usually lasts for about three months was reduced to three weeks to enable the Ooni participate in the approaching Olojo festival.

Ilofi is situated in Iremo Quarters of Ile Ife, a journey of about 10 minutes trek from Ile Oodua, Ooni’s official palace. While there, members of Isoro cult to which the Ooni is a prominent member would conduct installation rites on the monarch.

Earlier yesterday, the Ooni-designate was said to have received visitors in his residence and later held secret meeting with some palace chiefs.

Although the discussion with the chiefs was held behind closed door, but a source who preferred anonymity told The Guardian on phone that the discussion centres on information on what awaits him in Ilofi.

“He was in high spirit and exchanged pleasantries with people. He did not panic or wear any look that suggests he was displeased. He remains very calm and expectant,” said the source.

According to witnesses, Ooni-elect was led to Ilofi in a convoy of few cars at exactly 4:40 p.m. and was escorted by Obadio of Ife, Oba Obajide Ifaloba, who is the head of all deities in Ile Ife, and other members of Isoro cult.

The moment the rites begin in Ilofi, Ogunwusi would no longer receive visitors or see any other person, other than members of Isoro cult.