Human rights activist and AAC Presidential Candidate, Omoyele Sowore has criticized the conferment of a lifelong cultural role on Princess Alimot Osunbunmi during the Osun-Osogbo Festival, arguing that a 10-year-old cannot give meaningful consent to such a responsibility.
In a statement released this evening on his facebook profile, Sowore described the celebration of the princess’s role as “making history” as a serious issue of child 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 said.
The Osun-Osogbo Festival, held annually in Osogbo, Osun State, is a UNESCO World Heritage event that draws adherents, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts to the Osun Sacred Grove. The 2026 grand finale was scheduled for Friday, August 4, with state authorities and police assuring security for participants. cd08d66c
Sowore, a longtime activist who has spoken on civil liberties and governance issues, said culture remains important but must align with modern standards of children’s rights. 8454
“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. 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,” he stated.
He added that children deserve the space to grow before taking on permanent roles:
“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.”
The festival is traditionally overseen by the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, and involves rituals at the Osun River, processions, and prayers. Festival organizers and the Osun State Government have in recent years emphasized tourism, security, and preservation of Yoruba heritage around the event. 1a2529e28999
As of press time, there has been no official response from the Osun State Government or the Osogbo palace to Sowore’s comments.
The debate adds to ongoing national conversations about balancing cultural preservation with child protection laws in Nigeria, where activists have increasingly called for practices affecting minors to be reviewed through a human rights lens.
