As the ancient Osun-Osogbo Festival approaches, all eyes are on the young maiden chosen to carry on one of the most sacred roles in Yoruba traditional worship.
Princess Alimot Moredeke Ajoke Osunbunmi, a 10-year-old member of the royal family of the Ataoja of Osogbo, emerged as the new Arugba, following the conclusion of the tenure of the previous holder of the revered position.
The Arugba plays a central role in the annual festival, serving as the maiden who leads the procession and performs important spiritual duties connected to the Osun deity.
Here are seven important things to know about the new Arugba:
Princess Alimot was selected through the traditional Ifa divination process, which determines the maiden to take up the sacred responsibility from eligible girls within the royal family. The selection is not based on public nomination or appointment, as devotees believe the process reflects the will of the Osun deity.
Her emergence came after the previous Arugba’s service ended following her marriage, which traditionally brings the maiden’s tenure to a close.
The young princess is regarded as fulfilling the traditional requirements for the position, including being a maiden from the royal lineage. The role is considered sacred, and families whose daughters are chosen often see it as a great honour.
At the time of her selection, Princess Alimot became one of the youngest Arugbas in recent years. Her young age has influenced how she carries out some of her responsibilities during the annual festival.
During the 2025 edition of the Osun-Osogbo Festival, she did not carry the sacred calabash, unlike previous Arugbas. Instead, a male chief priest identified as Baba Osun (Adesina) carried the calabash while she led the procession.
Traditional custodians explained that the decision was due to her age and the physical demands involved in carrying the sacred object. They expressed confidence that she would take on the full responsibility when she is older.
As the new Arugba, Princess Alimot represents the continuation of a centuries-old tradition that remains central to the cultural and spiritual identity of Osogbo and the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival.
