The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, and his wife, Olori Mariam, have officially named their newborn twin boys during a vibrant ceremony held at the Ile-Ife Palace in Osun State. The event, which took place on May 31, 2026, was steeped in Yoruba tradition and drew the attention of royal family members, traditional chiefs, and well-wishers.
Traditional Naming Rites
The ceremony followed ancient customs, with an elder announcing the names of the twins. The first child, Taiwo, was given the names Prince Adelowo Adelanaire Adejare Adedunmininu Ademola Taiwo Omo Ooni Adeyeye Ojaja II. The second child, Kehinde, received the names Prince Adeleye Adelanaola Adejuwon Adedoyim Adebola Kehinde Omo Ooni Adeyeye Ojaja II. Traditional offerings such as bananas, beans, kola nuts, bitter kola, sugarcane, gin, water, cash, and dried fish were presented during prayers for the children's blessings.
Royal Attendees and Celebrations
Members of the royal household, traditional chiefs, and several of the monarch's wives, including Olori Aderonke, Olori Temitope, and Olori Ashley, graced the occasion. Traditional music groups performed, and guests offered their congratulations. The celebration continued with a reception inside the palace, where food and drinks were served.
The Ooni expressed gratitude to the public for their prayers and confirmed that both Olori Mariam and the twins are in good health. He described the double addition to the family as a "special blessing" and prayed that the princes would grow in strength and wisdom, becoming distinguished custodians of Yoruba cultural heritage.
Background of the Royal Family
The birth of the twins comes four years after the Ooni's marriage to Queen Mariam in 2022. Queen Mariam, an indigene of Kogi State with a background in the oil and gas industry, was integrated into the palace after her separation from her previous wife, Naomi Silekunola. Her entry into the royal court was marked by traditional rites reflecting the customs of the House of Oduduwa.
The Palace's Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, released an official statement on behalf of the Ooni, extending profound gratitude to Olodumare (God) for the safe delivery of the princes. He confirmed that both the newborns and the Queen are in excellent health.
The Ooni further appreciated the public for their sustained prayers and goodwill, stating, "I appreciated everyone who has continued to support the palace with prayers, love, and goodwill. This moment calls for thanksgiving and celebration."
