The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has dismissed allegations that he received $180,000 from a woman, Oladoyin Fagbule, in exchange for a promise of marriage.
The monarch described the claim as “fake news” and “character assassination.”
According to a statement by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, the palace is aware of the increasing number of marriage frauds targeting ladies who aspire to become queens. Olafare stated that the Ooni does not personally operate any Facebook accounts, and the palace’s social media handles are managed by its media directorate.
The statement read in part: “The news…is fake, untrue, and absolutely an unfounded allegation…aimed at achieving cheap popularity.” Olafare advised Fagbule to report the matter to the EFCC and the Nigeria Police for investigation instead of resorting to social media. He also revealed that the palace letterhead is unique and cannot be replicated.
The Ooni’s denial comes after a Twitter user, “99% OPPRESSED,” claimed that the monarch received the sum from Fagbule, whom he allegedly promised to marry. The palace has warned ladies to be cautious of such frauds and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
