Ooni reports alleged defamatory social media posts to authorities

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The palace of the Ooni of Ife has reported to security authorities some individuals behind what it described as defamatory social media posts targeted at the Monarch, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs of the Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the palace reiterated its previous press statement denouncing the posts as fabrications aimed at tarnishing the Ooni’s image.

It emphasized that the monarch does not engage with individuals through social media, nor does he have proxies to do so on his behalf.

The Ile Oodua palace also revealed it has taken decisive action, reporting the issue to security authorities, while expressing confidence that justice will be served.

“Beyond the lies and attempted blackmail, there is a clear case of perjury, particularly with the publication and circulation of a fake document bearing a poorly scanned signature of His Majesty. This is no joke, and we are confident that the criminals will soon be unmasked and brought to book according to the law,” the statement read.

The palace also warned against any unauthorized intermediaries claiming to act on behalf of the Ooni.

Specifically, the statement addressed one Ms. Folabi Da Silva, who has reportedly been in contact with the suspected media handlers under the guise of soliciting on the Ooni’s behalf.

“While we appreciate the solidarity of the Ooni’s supporters and well-meaning Nigerians, it is clear that individuals like Ms. Folabi Da Silva are not officials of the palace and have not been authorized to act as reported. Anyone found making unsolicited interventions without permission will be treated as part of the international blackmailing syndicate,” the palace warned.

The statement concluded by inviting anyone with viable information to approach security agencies or the Ooni’s palace at Ile-Ife, especially in light of the activities of the alleged victim Ms. Fagbule as well as the social media handler, known as ‘99% OPPRESSED’ or ‘PIDOMNIGERIA’.