Osun aboto (a wara wa legan) is a river goddess. In several Yoruba communities many water bodies regarded as Osun.
Osun aboto was a being who turned into a spring at Ita-Agbon area in Ijugbe Quarters in Ile-Ife in the ancient times. The spring source at Ita-Agbon is believed to be the mystical source of many big rivers across the world.
Osun aboto is appeased and worshipped so that she can offer protection over children by warding off diseases, ensuring safe delivery of babies and the provision of other maternity needs. In addition, if appropriately appeased, the deity can grant the barren the blessing of the fruit of the womb. Osun aboto is also appeased to ease the delivery of babies by expectant mothers. Bringing forth a new life is an experience that is highly valued in all human societies.
The devotee of Osun Aboto known as Iya Abiye is saddled with the responsibility of helping expectant mothers through the arduous task of giving birth