Making of Archbishop

Making of Ifa Archbishop

"The Making of Ifa Archbishop" is a full length documentary film of the coronation ceremony of Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon into the office of ARABA (Ifa Archbishop of Osogbo Osun State Nigeria, Sept. 11, 2010). The film starts with a summary of selected artifacts at the premises of Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon as well as some important instruments of the office of Araba. This exploration of artifacts is followed by the ceremony of Ifa poetry competition, the EYO Masquerade from Lagos display and EDO in Benin Masquerade acrobatic display.

Next, we see the ritual homage to the ancestor and Ogun shrine followed by a visit to the palace of Ataoja of Osogbo, where the King decorates Chief Yemi Elebuibon with sacred necklace beads and places the crown of Ifa upon his head. We then travel with the newly crowned Araba Yemi Elebuibon inside the Osun temple to receive the sacred leaf from the traditional king maker.

Araba Yemi Elebuibon journeys back to his home on horseback where he is placed on a traditional wood mortal at the entrance of his home. The ritual of kola splitting and goat sacrifice takes place so that the new Araba can complete consecration by stepping his foot into blood before entering the house.

Finally, we end with Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon adorned with the traditional attire and crown upon his head. All the community rejoices with happiness as they gather for a reception celebration of music, dance and festivities. Ase Araba!

ARABA IFAYEMI ELEBUIBON
HOUSE OF CULTURE
OSOGBO OSUN STATE NIGERIA