Controversial actor James Olarenwaju, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has received royal recognition from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who gifted him a brand-new car, luxurious presents, and a prestigious chieftaincy title shortly after the birth of his son.
The actor expressed profound gratitude in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing the monarch’s gesture as a “royal welcome” and “fatherly love” extended to him and his wife, fashion designer Abiodun Tokunbo (Luminee).
“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 continued with deep emotion:
“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!”
The development comes weeks after Baba Ijesha and Luminee announced the arrival of their son, an event that generated significant online attention and mixed reactions from the public.
Many fans and well-wishers have congratulated the couple on the royal honour, viewing it as a significant milestone for the actor following his past legal challenges. Baba Ijesha was convicted in a high-profile case involving a minor and served his sentence before regaining freedom in late 2025.