The case of Mr Akanbi and Ex wife Chanel.

From HRH Queen Chanel, Mother of Prince of Iwo Kingdom

I have become aware of recent allegations in the media and public discussions that involve His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife. I wish to state clearly that these statements are untrue, misleading, and harmful to the cultural and traditional institutions in Yorubaland.

To clarify:

I was introduced to Mr Akanbi by a well-known monarch from Lagos at a social event in Ikeja, not by His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife.

During my time as Olori Oluwo, I considered this Lagos monarch as a respected figure and continue to do so.

At no point did this monarch introduce me to Mr Akanbi with any harmful intentions.

I remember that Mr Akanbi and I visited the monarch and his partner in Lagos with Prince Oduduwa as a baby. These are personal memories.

It is noted that Mr Akanbi has not been involved in Prince Oduduwa's life, either emotionally or financially, for over five years. He contacted us in August this year during a visit to Canada. At that time, he did not sign the required documents for Oduduwa's Canadian passport but provided $500, which was the first support since we left the palace five years ago. I chose to remain silent on this, as I support peaceful co-parenting and have taken full responsibility for my son's needs.

I ask the public to ignore any false claims against His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, who is a leading monarch of the Yoruba people.

In addition, I urge the traditional institutions to address Mr Akanbi's actions to protect the institutions he represents.

This will be my final statement on matters related to Mr Akanbi. Prince Oduduwa is my son, and that remains unchanged. I respect the Yoruba people and believe the truth will be established.

Signed,

HRH Queen Chanel

Mother of Prince Oduduwa of Iwo Kingdom