The 2025 Osun Osogbo Festival took an unexpected turn on Friday when the sacred white calabash, traditionally carried by the Arugba — a young female virgin — was instead borne by a male chief priest.

Festival tradition dictates that the Arugba, chosen by the Ifa oracle, leads the grand procession to the Osun sacred grove, carrying the calabash filled with sacrificial items for the river goddess, Osun. This year, however, attendees were surprised to see the new Arugba, Miss Alimot Osunbunmi, walking ahead without the calabash, while the Osun Chief Priest, known as Adesina, carried it himself.

Osunbunmi was selected in March 2025 to succeed Miss Osuntomi Ewatomilola, who served in the role for 12 years before marrying in 2024. Sources from Ile Osun in the Ataoja’s palace confirmed that the calabash never passed into Osunbunmi’s hands at any point during the procession.

While no official explanation was given, traditionalist Olawale Osunfemi suggested the decision was practical. “She is still young and may not yet have the physical strength for the task. Carrying the calabash is both spiritually and physically demanding,” he explained, adding that she would likely take on the role fully in the coming years.

Security at the festival was tight, with military, DSS, and other security agencies ensuring the safety of the huge crowd and dignitaries present. The Osun State Police Command and Amotekun had earlier assured residents and devotees of safety throughout the celebration.

Despite the change in protocol, the festival retained its vibrancy, with devotees, tourists, and indigenes coming together to honor the river goddess Osun in a colorful display of tradition, spirituality, and culture.