His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has opened up about his tumultuous marital journey. Speaking from the heart of his palace in Ile-Ife on October 2, 2024, the revered monarch shared his experience of transitioning from a period of public humiliation following his divorce to now presiding over a palace teeming with queens.
As the sun rose over the ancient city of Ile-Ife, casting long shadows across the ornate palace grounds, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi sat down for an exclusive interview. His eyes, reflecting both wisdom and a hint of past pain, gazed out over the bustling courtyard as he began to recount his personal odyssey.
When my marriage broke and I became single, many people mocked me and said there is no respect for a king that has no queen,” the Ooni revealed, his voice steady but tinged with the memory of those difficult days. “I was sleeping and waking up alone. I called on God; I asked questions: who did I offend? I never did evil to anyone.”
The monarch’s words painted a vivid picture of a leader grappling not only with personal loss but also with the weight of public expectations and traditional norms.
As Oba Ogunwusi continued his tale, the mood in the room shifted from somber reflection to one of quiet triumph. “He told me to put my mind at rest,” the Ooni said, referring to his spiritual communion. “Look at me today. There are queens everywhere in the palace.”
This statement, delivered with a mix of gratitude and subtle pride, marks a dramatic turnaround in the monarch’s personal life. It also highlights the complex interplay between personal choices, public perception, and traditional expectations in modern Nigerian royalty.
The Ooni’s marital journey has been closely watched and widely discussed across Nigeria. In December 2022, the nation was shocked when Olori Naomi, the king’s second wife, announced the end of their three-year marriage via Instagram. This public declaration of private matters underscored the changing dynamics of royal relationships in the age of social media.
Recently, Olori Naomi spoke about her divorce, providing insight into the complexities of life within the palace walls. “While there were happy times, there were also challenges,” she reflected. “I was perhaps too naive and gentle when I first married the king, but life has taught me many lessons since then.
Her statement offers a rare glimpse into the personal growth and challenges faced by those who enter into royal unions.
In what can only be described as a whirlwind of royal weddings, the Ooni married six wives in a span of just three months following his divorce: Olori Mariam, Olori Elizabeth Akinmuda, Olori Tobi Phillips, Olori Ashley, Olori Ronke, and Olori Temitope.
During his 48th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary celebrations, the Ooni explained his decision to marry Mariam Anako and others. “I wanted to make changes,” he stated, “but the traditional legacy of Ile-Ife constrained certain choices.”
This explanation provides context to the monarch’s actions, suggesting a delicate balance between personal desire and cultural responsibility.
The past year has seen joyous additions to the Ooni’s family. Twins were welcomed with Olori Tobi, while Olori Ashley gave birth to a boy. These new arrivals have brought renewed energy and optimism to the palace, with many seeing them as a blessing and a sign of prosperity for the kingdom.
The Ooni’s marital journey has sparked intense discussion across Nigeria. Social media platforms have been abuzz with opinions, ranging from support for the monarch to criticism of polygamy in modern times.
Twitter user @YorubaRoyalWatcher commented: “The Ooni’s story is a reminder of the pressures our traditional rulers face. It’s not just about personal happiness but about meeting cultural expectations.”
On the other hand, @ModernNigerianWoman expressed concern: “While I respect our traditions, I hope this doesn’t send the wrong message about the value and role of women in society.
These diverse reactions highlight the ongoing dialogue in Nigeria about the intersection of tradition, modernity, and gender roles.
As Nigeria continues to evolve, so too do perceptions of royal marriages. The Ooni’s experience raises important questions about the role of traditional rulers in modern society and the expectations placed upon them.
Royal historian Professor Chidi Okafor notes: “The Ooni’s marital journey reflects broader changes in Nigerian society. It’s a complex negotiation between personal choice, public duty, and cultural preservation.”
The Ooni of Ife’s candid reflections on his marital journey offer a rare insight into the personal struggles and triumphs of one of Nigeria’s most revered traditional rulers. From the loneliness of divorce to the vibrant energy of a palace filled with queens and children, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the enduring power of cultural traditions.
As Ile-Ife and indeed all of Nigeria watch this new chapter unfold, the Ooni’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the complex tapestry of personal, cultural, and societal expectations that Nigeria’s traditional rulers must navigate in the 21st century.
