The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has emotionally reflected on his personal marital journey, years of emotional pressure, and the challenges he faced before the arrival of his newborn twin princes with Olori Mariam Ogunwusi.
Speaking at the ancient Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife during a grand congratulatory visit by religious leaders, traditional rulers, cultural groups, businessmen, and members of various communities, the revered monarch expressed deep gratitude to Olodumare for what he described as a divine royal blessing upon the House of Oduduwa.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Ile-Ife by the director of media and public affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi said he was openly mocked by some people during the difficult period.
“I thank God today. There is nothing God cannot do,” the Ooni said, expressing joy over the latest addition to the royal family.
The traditional ruler, however, noted that he never envisaged marrying many wives while growing up, adding that circumstances and traditional demands associated with the throne altered the course of his marital life.
Oba Ogunwusi said his life journey had been marked by unexpected challenges and mysteries, particularly after ascending the throne of Oduduwa.
He recounted facing intense pressure shortly after becoming the Ooni to quickly settle into royal marital responsibilities.
The traditional ruler also revealed that efforts were made at the time to persuade his former wife to relocate to Ile-Ife, with several prominent traditional rulers and influential personalities intervening, but the move did not materialise.
Reflecting on his early years, the Ooni disclosed that he became a father at the age of 19, describing the experience as one of the most challenging periods of his life.
He said the development initially overwhelmed him, but his mother played a significant role in encouraging him to remain focused, hardworking, and determined.
Oba Ogunwusi also appreciated the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, for her support and encouragement over the years, describing her as a mother figure who stood firmly by him during difficult moments.
The traditional ruler thanked the visitors for their prayers, love, and steadfast support, noting that the mother of the twins also extended her greetings to all who stood by her.
Earlier, the Chief Imam of Ifeland, Alhaji Abdulsemiu Abdulhammed, said the Muslim community and other well-wishers came to rejoice with the Ooni over the blessing.
“We have come to rejoice with Kabiyesi. It is God who makes a person laugh when he laughs.
“God created everything, and childbirth comes only by His command. Kabiyesi, this is worthy of thanksgiving,” he said.
Visitors to the palace included members of the Ife Muslim community, the Hausa community, traditional rulers from Ife North, the Giesi Ruling House, captains of industry, businessmen, and various cultural groups, among others.
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