‘Welcome Home’: Ooni Ogunwusi celebrates Asake, commends him for projecting Yoruba culture
The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and Natural Head of the Odùduwà race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has hosted renowned Nigerian music star Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, and his mother at the historic Ile Oodua in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The revered monarch commended the award-winning artiste for projecting Yoruba culture and identity on the global stage through his music and public persona.
The Ooni, who also serves as Permanent Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), received Asake in a colourful ceremony marked by rich cultural displays reflecting the deep heritage of the Yoruba people.
Asake arrived at the palace in the company of popular media personality Idowu Adeyemi, also known as Yhemolee, students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, as well as fans and supporters.
The entourage was welcomed with traditional songs, rhythmic drumming, prayers, and other cultural performances, creating an atmosphere of celebration and reverence.
Speaking during the visit, Asake expressed deep appreciation to the Ooni for the warm royal reception and fatherly blessings, describing the experience as humbling and unforgettable. In a show of reverence and joy, he sang songs of praise, extolling the virtues of the Ooni and the ancestral greatness of the Odùduwà throne.
Responding, the Ooni expressed delight at hosting the music star, describing him as a son of the soil who continues to uphold and promote Yoruba culture worldwide. “I am truly happy that Asake has come back home. He continues to proudly promote our culture to the world, and this brings me great joy,” the monarch said.
The Ooni offered prayers for continued divine guidance and enduring success in the artiste’s career, invoking Olódùmarè to direct his steps and crown his efforts with greater achievements.
He also paid glowing tribute to Asake’s mother, praising her unwavering support, sacrifices, and prayers. “She is indeed the true producer of Asake, a woman whose dedication has shaped the man we celebrate today,” the Ooni remarked.
The monarch further applauded the artiste for remembering his roots, describing it as a virtue worthy of honour, while also appreciating his supporters and well-wishers.
The event was filled with emotion as Asake’s mother beamed with joy while receiving special royal gifts from the Ooni in recognition of her sacrifices. In a symbolic gesture celebrating identity and heritage, the monarch also presented Asake with a sacred Ife artwork, representing history, pride, and the enduring bond between the global music star and his ancestral roots.
