Ooni of Ife hosts Asake, mum in Ile-Ife

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has hosted Afrobeats star Asake and his mother during a special visit to the ancient palace in Ile-Ife.

In a video shared on his official X account, the monarch warmly received the singer and openly referred to the ‘Lonely At The Top’ crooner as “my son,” while praising his global success and strong connection to his Yoruba roots.

The video showed Asake entertaining the Ooni and other dignitaries with a live performance of his hit song, ‘Lonely at the Top.’ The performance was met with admiration from those present at the palace.

In appreciation, the Ooni presented the singer with a piece of artwork from his personal collection, describing the gift as a symbol of honour and cultural pride.

In a heartfelt caption shared alongside the video, the traditional ruler described Asake’s visit as a meaningful homecoming and a great blessing, celebrating the artiste for taking Yoruba culture to the global stage.

“‎Today fills my heart with deep joy as I welcome my son, Asake, back home to Ile-Ife. This sacred land is where he spent many of his formative years, moulded by hard work, discipline, and quiet determination. To return home after such a journey is a blessing, and I receive him with pride and open arms,” the post reads.

The monarch extended special praise to Asake’s mother, acknowledging her as the “steadfast pillar” whose love and resilience were instrumental in his rise.

He also commended the singer’s team, led by his manager Lala, for their loyalty, which he said “reflects the true spirit of Omoluabi” — the Yoruba ethos of integrity and good character.

“‎Asake’s mother has been his steadfast pillar, and I am equally delighted to welcome her back home while extending my heartfelt gratitude to her for nurturing him with love, resilience, and strength to reach this remarkable stage of life,” it added.

‎”Significantly, I pay special tribute to Lala and the entire crew who stood faithfully by my son, your dedication reflects the true spirit of Omoluabi.”

The monarch thanked the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) authorities for nurturing the singer into a global music icon.

“I also express my sincere appreciation to Professor Toyin Ogundeji and Obafemi Awolowo University for nurturing one of the greatest musical icons of our time a cultural ambassador who has carried Yoruba heritage onto the global stage,” he added.

Asake returned to Nigeria after two years abroad. During his visit, the singer and his team paid a visit to OAU.

The singer recently confirmed that he has relocated to Los Angeles, United States.

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