Arugba is the story of a king of an imaginary town who brays against corruption while rigorously prosecuting economic reform and handily welcoming foreign investors.

The leadership portrait emerges as the key sub plot in an ornate romance featuring the Arugba – the virgin who carries the sacrificial calabash during the Osun Osogbo festival – and a young dancer intent on winning her.

Set against the backdrop of a corrupt society seeking cleansing, rebirth and nationhood, with all the attendant intrigues, the Arugba must perform her annual traditional role of carrying the sacrifice in a procession to the river.