The royal circles of Ile-Ife are abuzz with speculation following the release of striking birthday photographs of Prince Tadenikawo Ogunwusi, as his mother, Queen Naomi Silekunola, marked his fourth birthday in notably regal fashion. The images, which show the former queen and her son in matching traditional attire, have sparked widespread discussion about a possible reconciliation with the Ooni of Ife.
Queen Naomi’s choice of formal royal attire for the celebration has particularly caught the attention of observers, with many interpreting her sartorial choices as a possible indication of renewed ties with the palace. The photos, shared on her Instagram page, show both mother and son exuding royal elegance, with the young prince’s striking resemblance to his father drawing numerous comments from well-wishers.
In her birthday message, Queen Naomi referred to her son as “Omo oba Tadenikawo Adesoji Aderemi Eri-ifeoluwasimi Ogunwusi,” describing him as “a testament of God’s unfailing love.” The use of traditional royal titles and the formal nature of the celebration has added fuel to speculation about a possible reconciliation between the former queen and the Ooni.
This celebration comes against the backdrop of recent public appearances that have shown signs of a cordial relationship between the former couple. Just recently, they were seen together at a project opening in Akure, Queen Naomi’s hometown, where she was present alongside the monarch’s other wives. The event provided a glimpse of their apparently amicable co-parenting relationship, with cameras capturing moments of interaction between the former couple as their son remained close by.
The situation marks a significant evolution from December 2022, when Queen Naomi’s announcement of her separation from the Ooni sent shockwaves through traditional and social media circles. In subsequent interviews, she had been forthright about the challenges she faced in the marriage, describing herself as having been “too innocent and soft” when she entered the union, while acknowledging both “sweet and bitter moments” during her time as queen.
The Ooni himself has been open about the period following their separation, revealing in October how he faced public scrutiny and mockery for lacking a queen. He described this as a challenging time that led him to seek divine guidance, resulting in what he characterizes as a divine instruction to “put his mind at rest.” Since then, the monarch has expanded his household to include six wives and welcomed three more children.
Despite Queen Naomi’s previous statements ruling out a return to the palace, citing the monarch’s multiple marriages as a factor, their recent interactions suggest an evolution in their relationship. Last year’s celebration of Prince Tadenikawo’s third birthday saw them reuniting at the palace, setting a precedent for their current cordial co-parenting arrangement.
The public’s reaction to the birthday photos reflects the continued interest in the relationship between the former queen and the Ooni. Social media comments range from admiration of the prince’s royal bearing to speculation about the deeper meaning behind Queen Naomi’s choice of attire. One commenter noted, “From the way Queen Naomi is dressed, that means she and the King are back,” while others focused on the prince’s striking resemblance to his father.
The situation highlights the complex dynamics of modern royal relationships in traditional Nigerian monarchies, where ancient customs intersect with contemporary realities. Whatever the status of their personal relationship, both the Ooni and Queen Naomi appear to have prioritized their son’s well-being, maintaining a united front for significant occasions in his life.
As Prince Tadenikawo grows, his birthday celebrations continue to serve as occasions for public glimpses into the evolving relationship between his parents. While speculation about a potential reconciliation may continue, the focus remains on celebrating the young prince’s milestones and the successful co-parenting relationship demonstrated by his parents.
