The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has dismissed widespread reports claiming that he conferred a chieftaincy title on Nollywood actor Baba Ijesha, clarifying that no such honour was bestowed during the actor’s recent visit to the palace.
The clarification came after social media was flooded with claims that Baba Ijesha, whose real name is James Olanrewaju, had been installed with the title “Awada Konge Oduwa” following a courtesy visit to the monarch alongside his wife after the birth of their son. The reports generated intense public reactions, with many questioning the decision to honour the actor.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the monarch explained that while he warmly received Baba Ijesha and his wife and presented them with a brand new car and cash gifts as an expression of fatherly love and generosity, no chieftaincy title was conferred on the actor. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
According to the Ooni, the phrase “Awada Konge Oduwa,” which Baba Ijesha later described as a chieftaincy title on social media, was merely a lighthearted remark made during a relaxed conversation in recognition of the actor’s career as a comedian. He stressed that the comment was never intended to serve as a formal installation or conferment of any traditional title.
The revered monarch further explained that the conferment of chieftaincy titles in Ile Ife follows a sacred traditional process involving consultations, customary rites and public ceremonies. He emphasised that none of these procedures took place during Baba Ijesha’s visit, making it impossible for any official title to have been conferred.
Oba Ogunwusi, however, acknowledged that Baba Ijesha is an indigene of Ile Ife and a proud son of the ancient town, noting that he could be considered for a chieftaincy title in the future if deemed deserving. He maintained that, as of now, no such honour has been granted.
The Ooni also urged members of the public and media organisations to disregard reports claiming that Baba Ijesha was installed as “Awada Konge Oduwa” or received any other chieftaincy title. He reaffirmed his commitment to celebrating and supporting deserving sons and daughters of Ile Ife while preserving the dignity, integrity and sacred traditions surrounding the institution of chieftaincy.
The palace’s clarification has sparked fresh debate online, with many Nigerians reacting to the statement and expressing differing opinions over the controversy. While some welcomed the clarification, others continued to discuss the gifts presented to the actor, making the issue one of the most talked about entertainment stories of the day.
