The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has formally refuted rumors on social media claiming he bestowed a chieftaincy title upon the actor James Olanrewaju, widely known as Baba Ijesha. Moses Olafare, the palace spokesperson, released a statement on Saturday to set the record straight regarding the actor’s recent visit.
During a meeting on Wednesday, the Ooni hosted the actor and his spouse to celebrate the birth of their child. The monarch provided the couple with a new vehicle and financial assistance as an act of personal goodwill. However, the palace emphasized that no formal traditional title was granted.
The phrase Awada Konge Oduwa, which appeared on social media, was simply a humorous remark made by the Ooni during the meeting to acknowledge the entertainer’s career. It was never meant to be a formal installation. The Ooni noted that while the actor, as an Ile-Ife native, could be considered for a title in the future, the traditional and sacred protocols required for such an honor were not performed. The public is advised to ignore reports suggesting otherwise.
