Ooni of Ife Honours Baba Ijesha with Car, Gifts, Chieftaincy Title After Son’s Birth

Nollywood actor James Olarenwaju, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, says the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, gifted him a brand-new car, expensive items, and a chieftaincy title following the birth of his son.

Baba Ijesha disclosed this in a Facebook post on Thursday, thanking the monarch for the honour shown to him and his wife, fashion designer Abiodun Tokunbo, also known as Luminee. He described the royal reception and support as meaningful to his family.

“My deepest gratitude to His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife. Baba, thank you for the royal welcome, fatherly love, and the confidence you gave my wife Afolashade Omiyinka and I,” he wrote.

“For the luxurious gifts you blessed us with, and the brand new car — I am truly humbled. As a son of the soil. I’m also honoured by the chieftaincy title Baba Awada Konge Oduwa. Ile Ife, Ile Oodua! … ATI IJOYE PELU GBOGBO OMO ILE IFE THANK YOU SIR/MA.”

The announcement comes weeks after Baba Ijesha and Luminee drew wide attention on social media over the birth of their son. News of the child’s arrival went viral on June 15, 2026, sparking mixed reactions from the public.

On June 13, 2026, Luminee had announced she was expecting a baby boy without naming the father. She later posted maternity photos with Baba Ijesha, confirming his paternity. The posts attracted congratulatory messages from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers.

Baba Ijesha regained his freedom in November 2025 after serving a three-year jail term following his conviction for indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault of a minor.

The gifts and chieftaincy title from the Ooni have since triggered fresh online conversations, with many reacting to the actor’s public appreciation and the royal honour extended to his family.