The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, recently hosted Afrobeats sensation Asake and his mother at the historic palace in Ile-Ife, describing the visit as a symbolic homecoming.

In a video shared on his official X handle, the monarch affectionately referred to Asake, known for the hit “Lonely at the Top,” as “my son,” praising both his international success and strong Yoruba heritage. During the visit, Asake performed one of his songs for the Ooni and other dignitaries, after which the traditional ruler gifted him an artwork from his personal collection.

The Ooni highlighted Ile-Ife’s influence on Asake’s formative years, saying, “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.”

He also lauded Asake’s mother for her unwavering support, calling her a pillar behind the singer’s rise to global prominence. The monarch further acknowledged Asake’s team and Obafemi Awolowo University for their contributions to nurturing him as a cultural ambassador of Yoruba heritage on the international stage.

Concluding, the Ooni said, “Today, my son has returned home. A global star has come back to his roots. Ile-Ife receives you with pride.”