Human rights activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised the selection of 10-year-old Princess Alimot Osunbunmi as the Arugba, or sacred calabash carrier, at this year’s Osun-Osogbo Festival.
Princess Alimot led the annual procession to the Osun Sacred Grove in Osogbo on August 7, carrying the sacred calabash containing offerings as part of the traditional festival rites.
Festival organisers celebrated her participation as a historic moment, describing her as the youngest person to perform the revered role.
However, her age has generated debate, with Sowore questioning whether a child of 10 can meaningfully consent to the responsibilities associated with the traditional position.
Reacting publicly to the development, Sowore argued that cultural traditions should respect contemporary standards concerning children’s rights and welfare.
“A 10-year-old cannot make an informed decision about accepting a lifelong cultural responsibility. Placing such a burden on Princess Alimot Osunbunmi and celebrating it as ‘making history’ during the Osun-Osogbo Festival is a serious issue about the child’s rights and welfare.”
Sowore acknowledged the importance of culture to society but maintained that traditions should not impose obligations on children who are too young to independently decide whether they want to participate.
“Culture is an important part of our identity, but no tradition should place obligations on a child who is too young to give meaningful consent.”
According to him, cultural practices should evolve alongside society’s understanding of the rights and dignity of children.
He argued that protecting children should take priority where traditional obligations potentially restrict their ability to make choices for themselves.
“Our cultures must evolve with our understanding of children’s rights and dignity. Protecting children should always take precedence over preserving practices that impose responsibilities they cannot freely choose.”
Sowore further maintained that children should be allowed to grow and eventually decide for themselves whether they want to undertake significant cultural or religious responsibilities.
“A child deserves the freedom to grow, learn, and choose their own path when they are old enough. That is how culture remains both meaningful and humane.”
Princess Alimot was reportedly selected for the revered Arugba position in March 2025 through traditional Ifa divination.
She succeeded former Arugba Osuntomi Ewatomi, who left the position after serving for 12 years following her marriage.
The Arugba plays a prominent ceremonial role during the Osun-Osogbo Festival, carrying the sacred calabash during the procession to the grove.
While supporters have celebrated Princess Alimot’s participation as a significant moment in the festival’s history, Sowore’s intervention has added a child-rights dimension to the public discussion surrounding her selection.
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