Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has melted hearts online after a video captured him reuniting with a longtime friend at a public event.
In the trending video shared on Wednesday, the Ooni is seen arriving at an event when a man, believed to be his longtime friend, approaches him.
The monarch instantly recognises the man, removes his royal staff and stretches out his arms to hug him. However, palace aides quickly step in to remind the king of royal protocol, gently preventing a full embrace.
Social media users have been touched by the moment, with many noting how the monarch’s body language reflected genuine joy.
One commenter wrote, “He wanted to gyrate before he remember say he be orisa.”
Another reacted, “That moment he handed his staff over… He wanted to hug him but tradition held him back.”
A third user added, “This man too humble mehn… only few that value friendship will understand this feelings.”
Others noted the significance of the action:
“There is a reason the Ooni resisted hugging him,” one said.
“The Ooni couldn’t wait to give him a hug,” another said.
Oba Ogunwusi, the 51st Ooni of Ife, ascended the throne in 2015. He is one of the respected traditional rulers in Nigeria and serves as a spiritual leader to the Yoruba people.
Known for blending tradition with modern values, the monarch has frequently been seen interacting warmly with the public while maintaining the sanctity of his office.
Born on October 17, 1974, the Ooni is also a prominent businessman and philanthropist. He is the custodian of the annual Olojo Festival, a sacred Yoruba event held in Ile-Ife, which celebrates the creation of the universe according to Yoruba mythology.
