The Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare has clarified the circumstances surrounding a ₦4 million donation and bags of rice recently provided by the Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, following viral reports circulating online concerning the funds.
In a statement on Wednesday by the Senior Media Officer, Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, Olafare stated that contrary to claims suggesting that the money was meant for all journalists or online media platforms accredited to cover the 2026 Olojo Festival, the ₦4 million donation was specifically given to Iyalaje Oodua, Princess Toyin Kolade in appreciation of her media team which she has singlarly sponsored for over 10 years.
According to Otunba Moses Olafare, the gesture was made by the Ooni as part of efforts to appreciate and encourage members of the Iyalaje Oodua’s media team who have consistently accompanied her and covered Palace-related activities for over 10 years.
Olafare said the Directorate did not see or receive the said ₦4 million and, therefore, could not have withheld or diverted the money as alleged in some online publications.
He explained that the donation should therefore not be interpreted as a general financial package for all media practitioners who participated in the Olojo Festival as rightful general media package is being handled at the directorate according accreditated list of journalists.
He added that the Ooni recognises and appreciates the contribution of journalists, photographers, videographers and other media professionals who worked to document and promote the 2026 Olojo Festival and the cultural heritage of Ile-Ife.
Olafare further stated that all journalists who were duly accredited by the Media Directorate to cover the Olojo Festival have been attended to with monetary appreciation and other benefits, in line with the arrangements made for accredited media practitioners.
He, however, urged any accredited journalist who believes that he or she has not received the appropriate benefit to contact the Directorate with proof of accreditation.
“Anyone who feels that he or she has not received the benefit due to them is encouraged to reach out to the Directorate with proof of accreditation. Such cases will be properly looked into and, where applicable, the individual will be duly attended to,” the statement added.
The Media boss expressed concern over the spread of misinformation by some online bloggers such as Ile Ife/ Oduduwa legacy, Prince Jay Ile Oodua, Excellency Mayowa Amotekun, Foot TV Live, Omo Oduduwa Peace Omoluabi among others suggesting that Palace officials had withheld money meant for media practitioners, describing the narrative as inconsistent with what actually transpired.
He urged members of the public and media practitioners to always seek clarification from the appropriate Palace authorities whenever questions arise concerning financial arrangements or other official activities of the Ooni’s Palace.
He reaffirmed the Palace’s commitment to maintaining a cordial relationship with the media and ensuring that accredited journalists covering Palace activities are treated with fairness and professionalism.
He also commended media professionals for their efforts in projecting the cultural significance of Olojo Festival and promoting Ile-Ife as an important centre of Yoruba history, culture and heritage.
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