Ooni of Ife Addresses Alleged $180,000 Marriage Scam

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has addressed allegations from Ms. Fagbule, who claims she was swindled out of $180,000 by someone posing as the Ooni with a promise of marriage on Facebook. The Ooni has denied any involvement, stating he has never been in contact with Ms. Fagbule and does not personally operate any Facebook accounts.

In a statement by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, the Ooni clarified that his palace is managed as an institutional organization with a dedicated media directorate handling his social media accounts. He expressed disbelief that Ms. Fagbule, allegedly from Osun State or living in Ile Ife, did not attempt to visit the palace in person during the supposed relationship.

Oba Ogunwusi highlighted the prevalence of romance scams and urged the public to be cautious. He emphasized that the allegations are unfounded and part of a broader tactic to gain online notoriety and traffic.

The statement further criticized Ms. Fagbule’s decision to take her claims to social media rather than seeking assistance from authorities like the EFCC or the police. The Ooni suggested that credible mainstream media or human rights organizations could have provided a more appropriate platform for her grievances.

In conclusion, the Ooni reiterated that the allegations are baseless and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. The palace continues to warn the public about online scams and advises against falling prey to such fraudulent schemes.