The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has donated 3 acres of land in Ile-Ife to the International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) for the construction of the World Ifa Temple.
The project aims to erect the largest pilgrimage site for Yoruba traditional worshippers all over the world.
Speaking via a press statement, ICIR President, Fayemi Fakayode, announced that construction has already started at the Stadium Area, Route 7, Ile-Ife.
He appreciated Oba Adeyeye’s gesture, stating that it proves his love for tradition, Yoruba culture and spirituality.
He thanked the respected ruler for his thoughtful gift, adding that every Ifa and Orisa Worldwide practitioner will never forget how His Majesty came through for Yorubaland when his people needed him the most.
“This gesture of our referred first class Oba has demonstrated his love for tradition and Yoruba culture, and spirituality.
On behalf of the Council of Araba and Oluwo, under the Chairmanship of His Eminence, Awodotun Aworeni, the Araba/Olu-Isese Agbaye and all practitioners of Ifa and Orisa Worldwide, we thank His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, for this good and historic gesture,” he wrote.
Fayemi further noted that the Ooni emphasised his commitment to promoting Oduduwa’s cultural heritage, an act that is definitely worthy of emulation.
The ICIR President concluded by saying that once completed, the project will serve as a sacred pilgrimage site for Oduduwa practitioners globally.
“With this step, Ooni’s commitment to preserving and promoting Oduduwa’s cultural heritage and spirituality is obvious to all to see.
This project is going to be the largest World Ifa Temple across the world, and it will serve as a major pilgrimage site for practitioners of Oduduwa’s spirituality across the globe,” he added.
