The Ile-ife Royal traditional Council has debunked reports announcing the death of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, Olubuse II, saying he is alive and in good state of health.
The RTC, which comprises of all traditional chiefs and title holders in Ile-Ife said Oba Sijuade is hale and hearty and was preparing for son’s wedding holding next week Sunday in Lagos.
“Those behind the death story are enemies of Ife and as I speak with you, chiefs have not heard anything like that. This is not the first time such rumour will be carried about our father,” secretary Royal Traditional Council of Ife, the Ladin of Ife, High Chief Adetoye Odewole, says.
Chairman, Ife Development Board, Prof. Muib Opeloye, also commented in a similar manner. He maintained the royal father was preparing for his son’s wedding, urging people not to panic and go about their normal daily activities.
Meanwhile, the entrance of Ooni’s palace was shut to visitors, as only newsmen, chiefs and relations of Oba Sijuade were allowed into the premises.