LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The palace of the Ooni of Ife has dismissed claims by Nollywood actor Baba Ijesha that he received a chieftaincy title from the monarch, while confirming that he was gifted a car.
Speaking with The PUNCH, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, said he was aware that Baba Ijesha received a vehicle from the monarch but had no knowledge of any chieftaincy title being bestowed on the actor.
“I am not aware of the chieftaincy title, but I am aware of the car,” the spokesperson said.
Olafare explained that presenting vehicles to individuals is a long-standing gesture by Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi, noting that the monarch has extended similar gifts to traditional rulers and notable personalities over the years.
READ ALSO: Baba Ijesha Celebrates New Car, Chieftaincy Honour From Ooni of Ife
He cited figures such as Haruna Ishola and Sefiu Alao among beneficiaries of the monarch’s generosity.
“Kabiyesi gives cars to people. This is not the first time. He has given cars to so many people, including kings and individuals, and it is not a new thing,” he explained.
Adding to the palace’s position, another individual reportedly dismissed the actor’s claim of receiving a formal title “Baba Awada Konge Oduwa,” describing it as “probably a joke.”
“I am not aware of the chieftaincy title,” the individual stated.
The clarification follows a Facebook post by Baba Ijesha, in which he announced that the Ooni had rewarded him with a brand-new car, luxury gifts and what he described as the chieftaincy title Baba Awada Konge Oduwa, Ile Ife, Ile Oodua.
Notably, the latest response from the Ooni’s palace has now shifted attention to the disputed chieftaincy claim while confirming that the vehicle gift was indeed genuine.
