Ooni of Ife Faces Criticism for Honoring Convicted Actor
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, is under scrutiny on social media following actor James Olalenwaju, also known as Baba Ijesha, publicly sharing that the monarch gifted him a new car, luxury items, and a chieftaincy title after the birth of his son. This revelation has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among Nigerians, with many questioning the appropriateness of such honors for an individual previously convicted of sexually assaulting a minor in 2022.
Baba Ijesha conveyed his gratitude to the Ooni on his social media account, reflecting on what he termed a royal reception and the fatherly support extended to him and his wife, renowned fashion designer Abiodun Tokunbo, known as Lumine. In his post, he expressed heartfelt thanks, stating, “Thank you, Baba, for the royal welcome, the fatherly love, and the trust you have placed in us.”
However, his announcement was met with a deluge of criticism online, as numerous users voiced concerns that this action undermines the moral standards held by traditional institutions. One Instagram user, #cutie_juls, lamented the situation, questioning the rationale behind honoring someone convicted of child molestation. They emphasized the dissonance between the monarch’s decision and societal expectations, asking, “What are you promoting in your kingdom as King?”
Further expressing their outrage, the user remarked on the king’s choice to present a title and gifts to Baba Ijesha shortly after his prison sentence, arguing that such a gesture sends a damaging message. They questioned whether the honor was meant to celebrate the actor’s conviction or merely his completion of his sentence, concluding with a call for the monarch to reflect on this controversial decision.
Facebook user Oliver John echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the decision to award a traditional title to a sex offender. He expressed disappointment, questioning what kind of role model such actions present to society and the younger generation. “Traditional titles should embody integrity, discipline, and honor, and those who receive them must reflect the values upheld by our culture,” he stated.
Another commentator, Erwande Bode, expressed concern over misplaced priorities, asserting that the gesture was symptomatic of broader issues facing Africa. “What do we encourage with such honors? The basis for this award appears fundamentally flawed,” he noted.
Despite the backlash, a faction of social media users defended Baba Ijesha, arguing that he deserves a chance to reintegrate into society after serving his sentence. A Facebook user, Ola Christopher, pointed out the inconsistency of the government pardoning other offenders while criticizing Baba Ijesha’s recognition. He stated, “If the government can pardon and rehabilitate a repentant terrorist, then why not Baba Ijesha?”
Another supporter, Adeniran O. Oladipupo, shared a similar view, suggesting that there must be a divine purpose in Baba Ijesha’s challenges. They voiced that the actor’s trials and subsequent recognition could signify a positive transformation in his life.
