The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has disavowed a man who claims to be his son.
In a viral video circulating earlier this week, a man attired in traditional clothing, including neck and hand beads, asserted that he is the biological son of the monarch. He even went as far as issuing a 60-day ultimatum for the Ooni to acknowledge him as his son, along with a threat. This video created a stir online and sparked discussions.
In response, the Ooni has taken action. According to a statement released on Thursday, May 9, by the palace spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the man in the viral video has been reported to the security agencies for engaging in impersonation.
The statement affirmed that as a responsible father and guardian of tradition, the Ooni is acquainted with and recognizes all his children. He reiterated his commitment to taking full responsibility for them. The palace categorically denounced the act of impersonation and emphasized that the individual in question has no relation to the Ogunwusi royal family or the Giesi royal compound of Ile-Ife.
The statement also listed the names and whereabouts of all the Ooni’s children, confirming that the self-proclaimed prince has no association with the royal family.
Furthermore, the palace condemned the act of impersonation as sacrilegious and criminal. It called for a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrator to justice swiftly. The palace urged anyone with relevant information about the impersonator to come forward either to the palace or to the police.
In conclusion, the statement reiterated the commitment of the House of Oduduwa to preserving the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards fraudulent activities that tarnish its legacy.
