Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised the use of a 10-year-old princess, Alimot Osunbunmi, as the Arugba during this year’s Osun-Osogbo Festival, describing it as child abuse.
The annual procession, held on Thursday in Osogbo, Osun State, featured Princess Alimot carrying the sacred calabash to the Osun Sacred Grove as part of the festival’s traditional rites. Organisers described the moment as historic, noting that she is the youngest person ever to perform the revered role.
Alimot was selected through traditional Ifa divination in March 2025 to succeed Osuntomi Ewatomi, who served as the Arugba for about 12 years before ending her tenure following her marriage.
Reacting to the development, Sowore argued that the young princess is still a child and cannot provide informed consent to participate in such a significant traditional responsibility.
His comments have sparked public debate, with supporters citing concerns about children’s rights, while others defended the selection as part of a long-standing cultural and religious tradition.
