The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has expressed profound joy following a special visit from Afrobeats superstar, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake or Mr. Money, to his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
A Royal Welcome for a Global Star
The visit took place on Monday, December 22, 2025, shortly after Asake's highly publicized homecoming to his alma mater, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), which is located just minutes from the palace. The music star had arrived at OAU in a helicopter, accompanied by his mother, socialite Yhemolee, and Yoruba actor Lala.
Overflowing with paternal pride, the revered monarch welcomed Asake and his team with open arms. He later took to his official social media pages to share a heartfelt tribute alongside a video capturing highlights of the memorable visit.
"My Son Has Returned": The Ooni's Emotional Words
In his emotional post, the Ooni referred to the "Yele" crooner as his son, celebrating his return to the sacred land of Ile-Ife where he spent many of his formative years. The king praised Asake's journey, moulded by hard work and quiet determination, and expressed his delight in welcoming him back home with success.
"Today fills my heart with deep joy as I welcome my son, Asake, back home to Ile-Ife," the Ooni wrote. "This sacred land is where he spent many of his formative years, moulded by hard work, discipline, and quiet determination. To return home after such a journey is a blessing, and I receive him with pride and open arms."
He also extended special appreciation to Asake's mother, acknowledging her as a steadfast pillar in the singer's life and expressing happiness at welcoming her home as well.
Public Reactions and a Note of Tragedy
The news and video of the visit sparked a wave of positive reactions online. Many netizens celebrated Asake's humility and success, while others noted how his achievement attracts honour. Comments like "Success attracts many friends. May I be successful" and "He Left home to chase success and he’s back home with success" flooded social media platforms.
However, this celebratory moment comes against the backdrop of a recent tragedy linked to the singer. Legit.ng had previously reported that a female fan, identified as Lojare, reportedly died during a stampede at Asake's sold-out concert at the Nyayo Stadium in Kenya over the past weekend.
The Ooni's tribute and the warm reception in Ile-Ife stand as a powerful symbol of cultural pride and a homecoming celebration for one of Nigeria's most exciting musical exports, reaffirming the deep roots from which his global success has grown.
