celebrity radar - gossips
YEYEMOLU; Olori #1, Ooni of Ile-Ife
There has been tales and stories which one may have taken as mere hearsay or some myth about the so called Yeyemolu of Ile-Ife.
Today, I shall be TELLING about this mysterious and symbolic Yeyemolu, her personality and relationship with the Arole Oduduwa; Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.
According to the number one citizen of Oduduwa race, Alase Orisa! His Imperial Majesty (H.I.M), Yeyemolu is the first wife of the first Oonirisa and she remains the first wife of subsequent Oonirisas including himself as the incumbent and subsequent kings that would reign thereafter. He stated that Yeyemolu was his first contact in the Palace having ascended the throne of his fore-fathers and he had performed such rights as would be expected of an Oonirisa to his beloved Olori on entering the palace.
H.I.M majesty further explains that, he holds conversation and deliberates with Yeyemolu on a daily basis as he would a wife. Together as couple they deliberate on his activities and decide on steps to be taken. The revered monarchs explained that Yeyemolu is a god-sent wife to the Oonirisa. Any other Olori in the Palace of the Ooni must accord Yeyemolu the expected respect and would have to a take cue from her otherwise; she would be an unwelcomed guest at the palace.
Yeyemolu is often celebrated in the month of April in Ile-Ife as a deity (messenger of God). The celebration is seen as the king’s prerogative owing to the fact that she is the revered wife that must be honoured. Although, she is now with Olodumare (God) and no longer physically visible in human to us but she has been immortalised in the form of living spring, that is a “well” right there in the palace. The water from this well is used in carrying out all water-required activity of the Oonirisa in the palace. H.I.M claims that it is imperative to celebrate the legend Yeyemolu; she is “oro” that is, ‘a must-to-do sacrifice’.
Kabiyesi gave us an insight as to the distinction between culture and religion when explaining the concept of oro. He said “oro” is obeisance to formal rights of the Yoruba people. For instance, it is mandatory for a properly raised Yoruba to pay homage to the elders by kneeling or prostrating when greeting them. Kabiyesi made it clear that, culture is distinct from religion; irrespective of one’s religion, it would be an abomination to disrespect an elder and this goes to show that culture cannot be undermined as it is the way by which people live. In like manner, it is important to celebrate Yeyemolu and other cultural festivals. H.I.M believes this cannot be far-fetched for the reason why the South-West people of Nigeria live in one accord; it owns to the fact that we respect our culture and appreciate our individual differences in terms of religion.
Kabiyesi reiterated that we must always endeavour to promote our culture as a people with beautiful heritage as this will in-turn benefit us as a nation in the area of tourism.
Another spectacular sight at the well is the fact that, Yeyemolu is uncovered and yet remains spotless clean when drawn. Kabiyesi stated that, it is the wish of Yeyemolu to be left open as she seeks to look unto God, the author and finisher of her faith. No wonder it is called “O to ro ro omi a le Ife. Ara yi to mu nibe ko wopo o….” this implies that, ‘Yeyemolu is such clean and supernatural water full of purity and without blemish. Those who drink from it are so few……….’ It is also referred to as the spring of absolute truth.
Yeyemolu was said to be a kind, loving and supportive wife to her husband but as fate would have it, she could not conceive and bring forth a child for her husband despite all effort. As a result, she insisted that her husband, the king should marry another woman who would bare him children. The then Oonirisa therefore, married a new wife who gave birth to a child. Everyone including Yeyemolu was delighted for the new addition to the family.
Shortly after the birth, Yeyemolu told the king that she was up to surprise the Ooni; the king laughed and indeed was expecting a nicely packaged surprise from Olori at the appointed time. Days later, Yeyemolu went missing in the palace; no one could tell about her disappearance. Whilst in search for Yeyemolu, an Emese (king’s helper) found a strange sight in the palace; a freshly dug well. He reported to the king who also sighted the well. That was a surprise for the king as well as a mystery, due to the fact that, he had not ordered a well to be dug.
Therefore, the king invited Babalawo (an Ifa priest) who in-turn sought the face of Orunmila by consulting the oracle regarding the circumstances. Orumila, the Orisa (diety) of wisdom, knowledge and divination, who understands the human form and purity as the premodial diety (orisa abalaye), ibikeji Olodumare (next to God in hierarchy) and the eleri ipin (witness of fate) vividly told Kabiyesi how the well had appeared on the spot. “Yeyemolu had turned herself into the living well.”
The Babalawo made it possible for the Ooni to see and have a conversation with her beloved Olori. Yeyemolu said, “It was her wish to continue her life as a well so she could be a blessing unto the king and others. She would always be there any time she is needed; she promised to support the king or whoever comes to ask her for a favour in good faith, she would remain a pillar of support forever.” All that need to be done is to speak to Yeyemolu and also drink from the well; all problems are considered resolved by Olodumare through the living deity, Yeyemolu.
Indeed, Yeyemolu seem compassionate but regardless, she is jealous. She could not stand the rivalry and act of sharing her man with another woman; hence the decision to let go of her home in the physical realm. This decision however, had left her in a vulnerable position. Countless rulers of Ile-Ife had pitched their tent in her bosom. The numbers of rulers from the first to second dynasty are innumerable to us but we know of the third dynasty of which she is in her 51st matrimony to my king, Alaka Omo Apaara! Otiti Arikilemi! Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi. Kabiyesi oooooooo…………O yo omo loko lala sonu!
Gbemisola ‘Bisi-Taiwo.
celebrity radar - gossips
Olori Aderonke EmmanuelKing Honoured in Spirit-Filled Birthday Celebration as Valiant Special Prayer Squad Marks Third Anniversary
Olori Aderonke EmmanuelKing Honoured in Spirit-Filled Birthday Celebration as Valiant Special Prayer Squad Marks Third Anniversary
The atmosphere was charged with spiritual fervor and heartfelt celebration as the Valiant Special Prayer Squad, an intercessory arm of Adron Group’s spiritual framework, commemorated its third anniversary in an all-day prophetic gathering that also marked the 48th birthday of its founder, Olori Aderonke Omotola EmmanuelKing.
More than just a ceremonial event, the gathering was a fusion of spiritual depth and leadership tribute, highlighting the synergy between faith, corporate responsibility, and personal devotion. Olori Aderonke, who also serves as the Vice Chairman and Group Executive Director of Adron Group, has over the years exemplified a model of prayer-driven leadership and values-based stewardship.
Since its inception three years ago, the Valiant Special Prayer Squad has evolved into a spiritual backbone for Adron Group, mobilizing staff members, directors, and stakeholders into consistent intercession, prophetic declarations, and communal worship. The third anniversary, therefore, marked not just a chronological milestone, but a testament to divine guidance, unity, and spiritual growth within the organization.
The day-long celebration was rich with vibrant praise, worship sessions, moving testimonies of answered prayers, and exhortations from ministers of the gospel. Spiritual leaders and squad members led fervent sessions of intercession for the celebrant, the company, its leadership, and the nation at large, reinforcing the squad’s identity as a watchtower over corporate and national concerns.
One of the most touching moments was the outpouring of love and tributes directed at Olori Aderonke, whose commitment to spiritual discipline, staff welfare, and personal mentorship was lauded by all in attendance. Colleagues, friends, and mentees shared stories of transformation and growth under her leadership, painting a picture of a woman whose quiet strength has built bridges between the boardroom and the altar.
Adding to the beauty of the moment was the presence and participation of her husband, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Chairman and CEO of Adron Group. His visible support, actively engaging in the entire day’s spiritual sessions was a reflection of their personal bond and a strong endorsement of the spiritual structure his wife has built within the company.
In her address, a visibly moved Olori Aderonke gave thanks to God for the grace to lead and impact lives. She expressed deep appreciation to the squad members, her family, and the entire Adron community for their loyalty and spiritual alignment. She also stressed the need for sustained prayer altars within institutions and homes, declaring that every lasting legacy must first be rooted in divine alignment.
The event concluded with a solemn benediction and communion service that left many in renewal and spiritual empowerment.
As the Valiant Special Prayer Squad marches into its fourth year, it does so with renewed strength, carrying a mandate to not only intercede for Adron Group but to be a beacon of spiritual order in corporate Nigeria.
May Ekayoda’s MEHOPE continue to Empower Vulnerabke Communities.
Ex Face of Delta Beauty Queen 2014/2015, May Ekayoda, is a Nigerian-Canadian Certified Home Stager, Interior Designer, Entrepreneur, and dedicated humanitarian. She is the visionary founder of M.E.H.O.P.E (May Ekayoda Helping Orphans & Protecting the Elderly)—a nonprofit organization born from a deep-rooted passion for serving vulnerable communities.
Long before MEHOPE was officially established, May was already engaged in meaningful humanitarian work. As a beauty queen, she championed various outreach projects, focusing on orphans, women, and the elderly—causes that remained close to her heart.
Her journey of compassion began in childhood, witnessing the harsh realities faced by widows, single mothers, orphans, and elderly women in her community. These early encounters with hardship left a lasting impression, igniting in her a deep sense of responsibility and purpose.
What began as small, self-initiated acts of kindness evolved into a larger mission. These formative experiences became the foundation for MEHOPE—an organization driven by empathy, purpose, and a commitment to meaningful change.
May envisioned MEHOPE as a sanctuary for the overlooked and underserved. She believes that by empowering women—particularly those marginalized by society—and safeguarding the well-being of children and the elderly, we can inspire a lasting ripple effect of strength and resilience across generations.
Today, MEHOPE stands as a nonprofit rooted in compassion and action. Through its programs, May channels her vision into real-world impact—offering support, resources, and advocacy to ensure that everyone the organization touches feels seen, valued, and empowered.
*Contact*
To learn more about MEHOPE and May Ekayoda’s humanitarian initiatives, please visit www.mehopefoundation.org or reach out via email at [email protected].
celebrity radar - gossips
Becoming Ooni: How I Wore the Crown On Screen” — Adedolamu Awolowo Tells His Story
Becoming Ooni: How I Wore the Crown On Screen” — Adedolamu Awolowo Tells His Story
If you’re meeting Adedolamu Emmanuel Awolowo for the first time, three things will immediately stand out: his towering presence, charismatic energy, and captivating storytelling. But beyond his striking looks and charming personality lies a man deeply passionate about the Nigerian movie industry — both in front of and behind the camera.
The fast-rising actor and director has built his career quietly but steadily, earning his stripes with some of Nollywood’s finest. Recently, he grabbed major attention for his portrayal of the revered Ooni of Ife in an upcoming epic film chronicling the reign of Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
In a candid conversation at the City People office in Gbagada, Lagos, the Ibadan-born talent shared his inspiring journey with Senior Editor, Wale Lawal, including the pressure of carrying the Awolowo name and what it meant to step into royal shoes on screen.
A STAR IN THE MAKING
Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Adedolamu relocated to Lagos over four decades ago and attended Unique Children’s School and Unique Heights for his primary and secondary education. Later, he pursued Theatre Arts in university — but his passion for acting started much earlier.
“Even in primary school, I was in the drama club. I always knew I was born to act,” he recalls. Despite being encouraged to pursue a science career — even writing WAEC as a science student — his heart remained with the arts.
From drama clubs to street hustle, Adedolamu’s journey wasn’t a straight line. Coming from a broken home, he worked multiple jobs — including cooking for parties, shoemaking, and event ushering — just to fund his education. “An idle man is the devil’s workshop,” he says. “I had to keep pushing.”
WALKING IN ROYAL SHOES
Adedolamu’s big break came with a lead role as the Ooni of Ife in a yet-to-be-released movie directed by Yomi Amodu and produced by Tunde Adesoye. The film, shot in Ile-Ife, captures the achievements of the Ooni in recent years.
“I spent three weeks in Ile-Ife preparing and shooting. It was an intense, spiritual experience. Playing the Ooni is more than acting — it’s carrying a legacy,” he says. The cast included heavyweights like Peju Ogunmola, Taiwo Hassan, and Yinka Salau.
CRAFTING HIS OWN STYLE
Having trained under the late Yomi Ogunmola and later Muyiwa Ademola, Adedolamu has appeared in over 100 movies, including Owo Okuta, Abegbe, and most recently, “Ori Ade Fadaka” — a cinema release starring Bimbo Akintola, Antar Laniyan, and Jide Kosoko.
He recently directed two upcoming films for Africa Magic, titled Curiosity and Iwo Lo Pa. Shot in 4K and built on cinematic standards, they reflect his commitment to high-quality production.
“My set was intense,” he laughs. “We worked from 7 a.m
-
society3 months agoRamadan Relief: Matawalle Distributes Over ₦1 Billion to Support 2.5 Million Zamfara Residents
-
Business6 months agoDangote Refinery, wonder of modern technology ― Japan Ambassador, business community
-
society6 months agoNAPS Presidential Aspirant Lauds Tinubu’s ₦3.5 Trillion Education Budget, Advocates for Polytechnic Investment
-
celebrity radar - gossips5 months agoAlbums Reviews : Saheed Osupa’s Latest Release : A 2-in-1 Musical Experience
You must be logged in to post a comment Login