Joyous Celebration as Olori Mariam Ajibola Ogunwusi Gives Birth to Twins
The House of Oduduwa is filled with jubilation following the birth of twin boys to Olori Mariam Ajibola Ogunwusi. Meanwhile, Olori Mariam is one of the wives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), the Ooni of Ife. Hence, this joyous event marks a significant moment for the royal family and the Yoruba people.
Background of Olori Mariam and Her Marriage to the Ooni
The Ooni married Olori Mariam in 2022, just 10 months after his former wife, Naomi Silekunola, left. However, Olori Mariam brings a strong professional background in the oil and gas sector to the palace. Thus, her entry into the royal household followed brief but meaningful traditional rites at the palace entrance. She hails from the Ebira ethnic group in Kogi State and has family roots in Kwara State.
Ooni of Ife Expresses Deep Gratitude
In a statement released by Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, the monarch expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Olodumare. He described the birth of the twin princes as “a special blessing to the royal household and the entire House of Oduduwa”. In fact, the Ooni appreciated the outpouring of prayers, love, and goodwill from supporters of the palace. He said, “The moment calls for thanksgiving and celebration.” This expression of thanks highlights the deep spiritual significance of the event to the royal family and the wider community.
Prayers and Hopes for the Twin Princes
The Ooni prayed that the newborn princes would grow in sound health, wisdom, peace, and greatness. He added, “They will become worthy ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of Ile-Ife and the Yoruba race.” Thus, this prayer reflects the royal family’s hope that the twins will embody the values and traditions of their heritage as they grow.
Ooni’s Personal Message on Social Media
Sharing the joyous news on Instagram, the Ooni publicly gave God all glory and adoration. He wrote, “Warmest congratulations to the entire House of Oduduwa and to Olori Mariam Ajibola on the joyous arrival of a prince and a prince to the royal throne of Oduduwa today.” He further stated, “We give thanks to Almighty God, as both mother and children are in good health.” This message of gratitude and celebration reached a wide audience, reinforcing the importance of this royal milestone.
Significance of the Birth to Yoruba Culture and Royalty
The birth of twins has special cultural significance in many Nigerian communities, including the Yoruba. Moreover, twins are often seen as a blessing and a symbol of prosperity, strength, and continuity. For the House of Oduduwa, this event strengthens the royal lineage and inspires communal pride. It also highlights the Ooni’s role as a cultural custodian and spiritual leader of the Yoruba people.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Twin Princes
As the twins begin their journey, the palace and the wider community will watch their growth with great interest. Furthermore, their upbringing will likely involve immersion in Yoruba traditions, cultural education, and public service values. Hence, the Ooni’s prayers envision them as future leaders and ambassadors of Yoruba heritage. This birth reaffirms the vitality and continuity of the royal institution.
The Reasons He Married Many Wives
According to Leo Tolstoy, “The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” Remember how the monarch moved on from Olori Naomi and married six wives in three months after their failed marriage? First, he married Mariam Anako (September 6, 2022); next, Elizabeth Akinmudai and Tobiloba Philips (October 9, 2022). Subsequently, others followed: Ashley Adegoke (October 14, 2022), Ronke Ademiluyi (October 20, 2022), and Temitope Adesegun (on Monday, October 24, 2022) are the queens.
Ooni Enitan Ojaja himself explained why he married Mariam Anako and the others while celebrating his 48th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary. He said that he attempted to make certain modifications but was unable to do so due to Ile Ife’s traditional legacy.
Fortunately, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II) will be celebrating his 11th anniversary on the throne come December 2026.
Conclusion: A Time for Celebration and Renewal
The arrival of twin boys to Olori Mariam Ajibola Ogunwusi and the Ooni of Ife marks a time of joy and renewal for the House of Oduduwa. The Ooni’s heartfelt gratitude and prayers underscore the spiritual and cultural importance of the event. As the royal family celebrates, the Yoruba nation shares in the hope for a prosperous and peaceful future.
