Araba Yemi Elebuibon, the Araba of Osogbo Land, has stated that Babalawos (Ifa priests) are permitted to engage in diverse means of livelihoods, as long as divination has not revealed that they should make it a full-time venture.
He made this statement during a lecture at this year’s Osemeji Obamoro festival, organized by Odegbola Traditional Global Services and Osemeji Ibadan Foundation.
Elebuibon explained that in ancient times, many Babalawos engaged in other ventures such as farming and hunting to make ends meet.
He emphasized that Babalawos are allowed to pursue various livelihoods unless Ifa divination specifically mandates them to practice full-time.
The lecture also highlighted the importance of contentment, with Elebuibon advising individuals to be satisfied with what they have.
Supporting Elebuibon’s message, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II, the Araba of Ibadanland and host of the program, stressed the need for people to wait for their destined time and avoid imitating others.
He attributed many of society’s current evils to impatience and greed.
Araba of Ibadanland equally expressed his appreciation to individuals and groups who contributed one way or the other to the success of the 2025 Osemeji Obamoro festival.
‘I want to use this medium to express my appreciation to individuals and groups that contributed one way or the other for the success of the program. I equally want to say thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Osemeji Obamoro festival.”
Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), commended the organizers for their efforts in preserving Yoruba culture and tradition.
He offered prayers for the continued development and progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole.
The event, which included the representative of the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun; the President of Osemeji Ibadan Foundation, Babalawo Awodele Ogundare; and the Chairman of Osemeji Social Club, Ambassador Awoniyi Omorodoye Amosun, also featured Ifa musical presentations by Babalawo Awoniyi Oyekunle, Agbongbon of Oke Ogun, and Babalawo Ifayemi Ayoade, Otun Araba of Ibadanland.