Priestess says 10-year-old Arugba’s role is not child abuse
Ifáyemí Elébuibón and a female priestess have defended the tradition of selecting a young maiden as the Arugba for the Osun-Osogbo Festival. They explained that the role is a spiritual privilege and not a form of child abuse, as some critics have claimed. Princess Alimot Osunbunmi, a 10-year-old from the royal family, was chosen through Ifa divination and carries the sacred calabash during the festival. The priestess emphasized the spiritual significance and protection given to the Arugba.
What we know
- Ifáyemí Elébuibón stated that the Arugba’s role is based on spiritual maturity, not biological age.
- Princess Alimot Osunbunmi was selected through traditional Ifa divination in March 2025 and carried the sacred calabash for the first time on Friday during this year’s procession.
- The priestess said the Arugba must be a virgin from the royal lineage and is expected to observe certain taboos.
- The 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival began on August 7 and will run until August 19 at the Osun Sacred Grove.
- Both custodians rejected claims of child abuse, saying the Arugba is honored and protected in line with tradition.
