In a recent online video that has garnered attention, a middle-aged man has come forward claiming to be the undisclosed son of the revered Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi. The man, who chose to remain anonymous, alleged that the Ooni had instructed his mother to keep their relationship a secret.
Clad in a traditional white Agbada, the man confidently asserted, “Oba Enitan Ogunwunsi is my father. He hid me with my mother with a clear instruction that I must not reveal myself.” This unexpected revelation has sparked a wave of speculation and curiosity among the public.
However, the palace of the Ooni has swiftly dismissed the man’s claims, labeling him an impersonator. The spokesperson for the Ooni, Moses Olafare, released a statement asserting that the matter has been reported to the appropriate security agencies for further investigation. Olafare emphasized that the Ooni, as a responsible father and custodian of tradition, recognizes and acknowledges all his children and would take full responsibility for them.
Olafare further stated that the self-proclaimed prince is unknown to the palace and the people of Ile-Ife. He clarified, “He is not a child of Ooni Ogunwusi as fraudulently claimed, but also never related in any way to any lineage of the Ogunwusi royal family and the Giesi Royal Compound of Ile-Ife at large.” Olafare urged the alleged impersonator to refrain from engaging in deceptive practices and warned against any attempts to undermine or tarnish the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
The man, however, has given a two-month ultimatum for the Ooni to invite him to the palace; otherwise, he threatens to reveal more secrets. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and whether the alleged son of the Ooni will provide further evidence to support his claims.
As the public eagerly awaits the resolution of this intriguing saga, it serves as a reminder of the complexities that can arise within royal families. The Ooni of Ife, as a prominent figurehead, holds a significant position within Nigerian society, and any claims regarding his lineage carry weight and public interest.
The truth behind this alleged paternity claim will undoubtedly be investigated thoroughly, ensuring that the Ooni’s true descendants are acknowledged and that the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people is protected. Only time will tell if this claim is substantiated, and if so, how it will impact the Ooni, his family, and the wider community.
