By Adedoja Adesoji
March 16, 2025
A 9-year-old girl from Agbo’le Oba, Osogbo, has been chosen as the new Arugbá Ọ̀ṣun.
This esteemed role is steeped in tradition and cultural significance, dating back centuries.
The Arugbá Ọ̀ṣun is a sacred virgin girl who plays a pivotal role in the annual Ọ̀ṣun-Òṣogbo Festival, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage.
During the festival, the Arugbá Ọ̀ṣun carries a calabash of sacrifices to the Ọ̀ṣun River, a sacred site dedicated to the Yoruba goddess of fertility, love, and prosperity – Ọ̀ṣun.
The Ọ̀ṣun-Òṣogbo Festival is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, showcasing their deep connection with nature, spirituality, and community.
The festival attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from around the world, who come to experience the vibrant music, dance, and traditional rituals.
As the new Arugbá Ọ̀ṣun, the 9-year-old girl will embark on a journey of spiritual growth, cultural immersion, and community service.
