Nollywood actor James Olarenwaju, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has disclosed that the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, honoured him with a brand-new car, luxury gifts and a traditional title following the birth of his son.
The actor made the announcement in a Facebook post on Thursday, where he publicly thanked the revered monarch for what he described as an overwhelming show of kindness and acceptance extended to him and his wife, fashion designer Abiodun Tokunbo, popularly known as Luminee.
Expressing appreciation to the Ooni, Baba Ijesha said the reception he and his family received in Ile-Ife exceeded their expectations.
“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,” Baba Ijesha wrote.
He further revealed that the monarch presented him with several gifts, including a new vehicle, and also conferred on him the traditional title of Baba Awada Konge Oduwa.
“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 latest development comes only weeks after Baba Ijesha and Luminee attracted significant attention on social media with the announcement of the arrival of their baby boy.
News of the child’s birth gained widespread attention on June 15, 2026, generating congratulatory messages as well as mixed reactions from members of the public.
Two days earlier, on June 13, Luminee had shared a post revealing that she had given birth to a son without identifying the child’s father. She subsequently posted maternity photographs featuring herself and Baba Ijesha, effectively confirming their relationship and prompting an outpouring of reactions from fans, colleagues and well-wishers.
Baba Ijesha returned to public life after regaining his freedom in November 2025, having completed a three-year prison sentence following his conviction for indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault of a minor.
(Ripples)