Asake and His Mother Pay a Heartfelt Visit to the Ooni of Ile‑Ife

Afrobeats sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, recently made a deeply symbolic return to his roots in Ile‑Ife, Osun State, accompanied by his mother and close associates, to pay a courtesy visit to His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. The visit, which took place on Monday, December 22, 2025, was more than a cultural courtesy call — it was a vibrant homecoming that underscored Asake’s rise from a local creative talent to a globally recognized music star. 

The historic palace of the Ooni, often regarded as Ile Oodua, served as the backdrop for the warm reception. In a video shared on social media by the monarch, the Ooni referred to Asake as his “son”, celebrating not just the artist’s commercial success, but also his deep connection to Yoruba culture and heritage — a connection that began in his formative years in Ile‑Ife. 

Accompanying Asake on the visit was his mother — whom the monarch described as a “steadfast pillar” behind the singer’s journey — as well as his manager, actor and media personality Idowu Adeyemi (better known as Yhemolee), students from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) where Asake once studied, and a contingent of fans and supporters who joined in the celebration. 

Upon arrival, the group was met with traditional drumming, rhythmic Yoruba chants, and vibrant cultural displays. These ceremonial elements didn’t only reflect pride in local heritage — they honoured Asake’s cultural identity which he has boldly carried onto global stages. During the visit, the singer performed his hit track “Lonely at the Top” for the Ooni and the dignitaries present, an emotional moment that captured the joy of his return. 

In a heartfelt message shared alongside the palace footage, the Ooni declared:

“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.” 

He went on to describe the visit as a blessing and an affirmation of the values that shaped the artist’s journey. The monarch also paid tribute to those who supported Asake throughout his rise — especially his mother, whose love, strength, and resilience he said played a central role in shaping the man celebrated today. 

The visit comes shortly after an equally memorable stop at Obafemi Awolowo University, where Asake arrived in a helicopter and thrilled students with an emotional return to campus, even observing traditional prostration in respect to the institution’s customs.