The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has opened up on the emotional pain, public criticism and intense pressure he endured over delays in having children after ascending the throne.
The monarch made the disclosure while receiving visitors who came to celebrate with him following the birth of twin princes by one of his wives, Queen Mariam.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Ile-Ife by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the traditional ruler reflected on the difficult moments he faced after becoming the Ooni of Ife.
According to the statement, the monarch said he was openly mocked by some individuals during the challenging period, noting that the experience tested his faith and resilience.
“I thank God today. There is nothing God cannot do,” the Ooni said while expressing gratitude over the birth of the twins.
The royal father stated that he never imagined growing up to marry multiple wives, but explained that circumstances and the traditional expectations attached to the throne significantly altered the course of his marital life.
Oba Ogunwusi said his journey since ascending the throne of Oduduwa had been filled with mysteries and unexpected challenges, especially regarding family life and royal responsibilities.
He disclosed that shortly after becoming the Ooni, he faced mounting pressure to quickly settle into royal marital obligations.
The monarch further revealed that efforts were made to persuade his former wife to relocate to Ile-Ife, with several respected traditional rulers and influential personalities intervening at the time, but the move eventually failed to materialise.
Reflecting on his younger years, the Ooni disclosed that he became a father at the age of 19, describing the experience as one of the toughest periods of his life.
According to him, the development initially overwhelmed him, but his mother encouraged him to remain focused, hardworking and determined despite the challenges.
The traditional ruler also appreciated Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for her support and encouragement over the years, describing her as a mother figure who stood firmly by him during difficult moments.
He thanked visitors and well-wishers for their prayers, love and steadfast support, adding that the mother of the twins also conveyed her appreciation to everyone who stood by the family.
Earlier, the Chief Imam of Ifeland, Abdulsemiu Abdulhammed, said members of the Muslim community and other well-wishers visited the palace to rejoice with the monarch over the birth of the twins.
“We have come to rejoice with Kabiyesi. It is God who makes a person laugh.
“God created everything, and childbirth comes only by His command. Kabiyesi, this is worthy of thanksgiving,” he said.
