Traditional rulers outside Ife jurisdiction also benefit from Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi’s benevolence.
Ile-Ife, Osun State – As local government allocations remain withheld by the Federal Government, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has stepped in to cushion the financial impact on traditional institutions across Osun State—personally paying the salaries of over 20 monarchs monthly.
According to palace sources, the beneficiaries include traditional rulers from various towns and domains outside Ife, who are not under the Ooni’s direct jurisdiction and exercise supreme authority within their own territories.
In addition to this broader support, the Ooni also covers the salaries of all traditional rulers within Ife who serve under his rulership, ensuring the stability and dignity of the institution despite the ongoing funding crisis.
Leadership Beyond Boundaries
The gesture has been widely praised as a demonstration of royal responsibility and solidarity among Yoruba traditional institutions. At a time when many monarchs rely on council allocations to maintain their palaces and staff, the Ooni’s intervention has provided critical relief.
“This is not about jurisdiction—it’s about family,” a close associate of the Ooni remarked. “The Ooni sees all Yoruba traditional rulers as one family, and in times of difficulty, family supports family.”
Context of the Crisis
The withholding of local government allocations has created financial strain across many council areas in Nigeria, affecting not only infrastructure and development but also the traditional institutions that depend on state support. The Ooni’s initiative highlights the ripple effects of the funding freeze and the creative ways leaders are stepping up to fill the gap.
A Legacy of Generosity
This is not the first time the Ooni has demonstrated such largesse. Over the years, Oba Ogunwusi has been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts, youth empowerment programs, and support for widows and orphans across Yorubaland and beyond.
The move has sparked conversations about the role of traditional rulers in governance and community support, with many calling on other monarchs and wealthy individuals to emulate the Ooni’s example.
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