The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has opened up about the emotional pressure and public ridicule he faced over delays in having children after ascending the throne.
Speaking during a visit by well-wishers who came to celebrate the birth of twin princes by his wife, Queen Mariam, the monarch said the period was one of the most difficult moments of his reign.
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 expressed gratitude to God for blessing his family with the twins.
“I thank God today. There is nothing God cannot do,” the Ooni said while reflecting on the challenges he endured before the birth of the children.
The monarch disclosed that he was subjected to intense public scrutiny and mockery over the absence of children after becoming the Ooni of Ife.
According to him, the expectations placed on him as the custodian of the throne of Oduduwa created enormous pressure to quickly settle into royal family life.
Oba Ogunwusi also revealed that he never imagined he would marry multiple wives while growing up, noting that the demands and traditions associated with the throne significantly changed the direction of his personal life.
The royal father explained that his journey since ascending the throne had been filled with unexpected trials and mysteries.
He further recounted how prominent traditional rulers and influential personalities once intervened in efforts to persuade one of his former wives to relocate to Ile-Ife, but the arrangement eventually failed to materialise.
Reflecting on his younger years, the Ooni said he became a father at the age of 19, describing the experience as overwhelming at the time.
He credited his mother for helping him remain focused and determined despite the challenges he faced as a young parent.
The monarch also expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for her encouragement and support over the years.
He described her as “a mother figure” who stood by him during difficult periods of his life.
Oba Ogunwusi thanked all visitors, supporters and well-wishers for their prayers and unwavering support, adding that the mother of the newborn twins also conveyed her appreciation to everyone who celebrated with the royal family.
