The Palace of the Ooni of Ife has denied allegations that Ms. Fagbule was swindled out of $180,000 by scammers impersonating Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II. This denial comes in response to a fake news report that has been circulating on social media.
In a statement signed by Otunba Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs, the Palace expressed concern over the increasing number of women falling victim to online marriage scams. Despite previous warnings from the Palace, many women still fall prey to scammers posing as the Ooni in an attempt to exploit their desire to become queens.
The Palace emphasized that it does not typically respond to fake news but felt compelled to address this particular issue due to the widespread concern it has caused among the Ooni’s subjects and supporters worldwide.
Key clarifications from the Palace include:
1. The news circulated by a Twitter (now X) account called “99% OPPRESSED” is false and an attempt at character assassination.
2. Ms. Fagbule has never had any interpersonal communication or relationship with the Ooni.
3. Ooni Adeyeye does not personally operate any social media accounts. His social media presence is managed by the Palace’s media directorate.
4. Ms. Fagbule, purportedly from Osun State or Ile-Ife, never visited the Palace to meet the Ooni in person during their alleged relationship.
5. The appropriate channels for reporting such scams, such as the EFCC and the Police, were not utilized by Ms. Fagbule.
6. The letter of marriage proposal shown on social media is a fabrication, not using the official Palace letterhead or proper grammatical standards.
7. It is unreasonable to suggest that the Ooni would solicit money for travel expenses given his substantial wealth and business success.
8. Ms. Fagbule is invited to the Palace for assistance in working with law enforcement to identify and apprehend the scammers.
The Palace advised the public to be cautious in their online interactions, reiterating that the Ooni does not engage with individuals via social media or appoint proxies for such interactions. The Palace’s official letterhead is distinctive and recognized by corporate entities and individuals familiar with the Ooni’s correspondence.
