The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, warmly received Afrobeats star Asake and his mother during a special visit to the historic palace in Ile-Ife.
In a video shared on his official X account, the monarch affectionately called the ‘Lonely At The Top’ hitmaker “my son,” praising his global success and celebration of Yoruba heritage. The footage also captured Asake performing his hit song ‘Lonely at the Top’ for the Ooni and other dignitaries. In appreciation, the traditional ruler presented the artiste with a piece of artwork from his personal collection.
Accompanying the footage, the Ooni described the visit as a profound blessing:
“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 monarch also lauded Asake’s mother as a “steadfast pillar,” whose love and resilience were crucial in his rise, and commended his team, led by manager Lala, for their loyalty, reflecting the Yoruba ethos of Omoluabi — 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,” he added.
He further expressed appreciation to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and Professor Toyin Ogundeji for supporting the singer’s journey, nurturing him into a global music icon and cultural ambassador for Yoruba heritage.
Asake, who recently relocated to Los Angeles, United States, returned to Nigeria after two years abroad and also visited OAU during this homecoming.