Naomi, Estranged Wife Of Ooni Of Ife, Demands Apology, Retraction, And N50 Million Damages Over Viral Video Misrepresentation
Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, has demanded a public apology, retraction, and N50 million in damages from blogger and gospel musician Olufunke Ayokunle. The demands follow the circulation of an old video that misrepresented her in the wake of a tragic stampede that claimed 35 lives in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Naomi’s legal team, led by Joseph Adeola Lukman, Esq., and Musibau Adetunbi, SAN & Co., issued a demand letter accusing Ayokunle of intentionally sharing a 2022 video on January 16, 2025, without context, leading the public to falsely believe the video was recent. This sparked backlash just days after Naomi’s release on bail over the December 18, 2024, stampede incident.
The letter highlighted that the misrepresentation misled notable figures, including APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe and journalist Reuben Abati, into criticizing Naomi as being insensitive and unsympathetic to the victims’ families.
“The ill-timed posting of the old video has created a false impression that our client is callous and unperturbed about the tragic loss of lives. This perception cannot be further from the truth,” the legal team stated.
Naomi clarified that the video, recorded in 2022, had no connection to recent events and accused Ayokunle of exploiting her image for public traction.
The legal team demanded that Ayokunle:
Retract the video within 24 hours.
Issue a public disclaimer clarifying the video’s original context.
Publish a formal apology across her social media platforms.
Cease posting Naomi’s videos or images without consent.
Pay N50 million in damages within seven days.
Failure to meet these demands, the lawyers warned, could lead to legal action, including claims for exemplary damages and potential cyberstalking charges.
The video has fueled public criticism, despite Naomi adhering to her bail condition of avoiding public or social media engagements. Her legal team described the incident as “ill-timed, unfair, and thoughtless,” emphasizing the need for accountability for the damage caused.
