Ooni childbirth struggles come to light as the monarch reflects on pressure and criticism before welcoming twin princes
The Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has opened up about the emotional pain, public criticism and intense pressure he endured over delays in having children after ascending the throne.
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The monarch made the revelation in Ile-Ife on Saturday while receiving visitors who came to celebrate the birth of twin princes by one of his wives, Queen Mariam.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the traditional ruler disclosed that some people openly mocked him during the difficult period.
“I thank God today. There is nothing God cannot do,” the Ooni said while expressing gratitude over the birth of the twins.
The Ooni childbirth struggles revelation offered rare personal insight into the pressures and expectations associated with occupying one of Nigeria’s most revered traditional stools.
Oba Ogunwusi explained that he never imagined he would marry many wives while growing up, but said circumstances surrounding the throne and traditional responsibilities altered the direction of his marital life.
According to the monarch, his journey after ascending the throne of Oduduwa had been marked by unexpected mysteries and difficult experiences.
He disclosed that shortly after becoming Ooni, there was considerable pressure on him to quickly settle into royal marital responsibilities.
The monarch further revealed that several prominent traditional rulers and influential personalities had at the time intervened in efforts to persuade his former wife to relocate to Ile-Ife, but the arrangement eventually failed.
Reflecting on his younger years, Adeyeye Ogunwusi said he became a father at the age of 19, describing the experience as one of the most challenging moments of his life.
The traditional ruler said the early responsibility initially overwhelmed him before his mother encouraged him to remain focused, hardworking and determined.
The Ooni childbirth struggles narrative also included appreciation for Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, whom he described as a mother figure who stood firmly by him during difficult periods.
Oba Ogunwusi thanked visitors, supporters and well-wishers for their prayers and encouragement, adding that Queen Mariam also conveyed her gratitude to everyone who supported the family.
Earlier during the visit, the Chief Imam of Ifeland, Alhaji Abdulsemiu Abdulhammed, led members of the Muslim community and other visitors to rejoice with the monarch over the birth of the twins.
“We have come to rejoice with Kabiyesi. It is God who makes a person laugh when he laughs,” the cleric said.
Visitors to the palace included members of the Ife Muslim Community, the Hausa Community, traditional rulers from Ife North, members of the Giesi Ruling House, business leaders and cultural groups.
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The emotional testimony from the monarch has since generated widespread reactions among residents and supporters who described the moment as deeply moving and inspirational.
