Queen Naomi Silekunola Ends Marriage to Ooni of Ife, Embraces New Chapter as Mother

Naomi Silekunola, former Queen Consort to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has publicly declared the end of their union in a heartfelt Instagram post dated December 11, 2025. She expressed gratitude for divine faithfulness over the three-year marriage while emphasizing personal growth and her role as mother to their son, Prince Tadenikawo. The announcement marks a significant moment in the life of the Ile-Ife palace, echoing her previous separation statement from 2021, though this latest development underscores a definitive close to the chapter. ​

Key Clarifications from Naomi

Naomi addressed several public misconceptions to set the record straight. She insisted the decision stems not from the Ooni taking another wife, noting she remained his sole official spouse amid any “side attractions,” which never posed an issue. The union was not arranged; the Ooni initiated contact, and she met the alleged introducing prophetess only post-engagement out of respect. Additionally, Prince Tadenikawo marks her first pregnancy, backed by medical records, while a perceived daughter is actually her niece. ​

Reasons for Separation

Endurance defined her efforts, as Naomi revealed smiling through struggles but ultimately recognizing her primary duty to her son, likening it to biblical narratives of divine transitions. Religion played no role in the rift, as detailed in her prior News Central TV interview, but she highlighted a disconnect between the Ooni’s public image and private reality. She now rejects perfectionist ideals, redefining herself as “Queen of the people” and devoted mother to her “adorable prince.” ​

ADVERTISEMENT

Ooni’s Marital History

The Ooni, aged 47, ascended the throne in 2015 and has navigated multiple unions, including a 17-month marriage to Zaynab Otiti Obanor ending in 2017. His relationship with Naomi, married in 2018, produced their son before her 2021 exit, after which he wed several others, including six between September and October 2022, with recent additions like Queen Tobiloba Philips-Ogunwusi welcoming twins in 2024. No immediate palace response has emerged to this 2025 announcement, consistent with past silences on such matters.