Ogun

Ogun or Ogoun (Yoruba: Ògún, Edo: Ògún, Portuguese: Ogum, Gu; also spelled Oggun or Ogou; known as Ogún or Ogum in Latin America) is a prominent Yoruba Orisha whose worship has spread across numerous African religions.

Ògún is revered as a warrior deity and powerful spirit of metalwork, particularly associated with iron. He also maintains strong connections to rum and rum-making. His presence extends throughout Yoruba religion, Santería, Haitian Vodou, West African Vodun, Candomblé, Umbanda, and the folk religion of the Gbe people.

In Yoruba mythology, Ogun attempted to claim the throne following the death of Ọbàtálá (who had ruled during two separate periods, before and after Oduduwa). However, he was defeated by Obalufon Ogbogbodirin and forced into exile—an event that now forms the central narrative of the Ọlọ́jọ́ Festival.