The leadership of the Oyotunji African Village has issued a strong public advisory, denouncing the ongoing impersonation of its royal titles and cultural authority by a group of individuals allegedly misrepresenting themselves as affiliated with the sacred institution.
In a statement signed by H.R.H. Yeye Oba Ifabunmi O.A. Adefunmi Sands, the village leadership named Bobajiro Olajide Makinde Wilkerson, Eketa Oba Adetokun Oyewole Meredith, Olamiji Pearse, and Kimberly Washington as individuals falsely claiming leadership roles or cultural ties to the Oyotunji African Village.
“These individuals are not, and have never been, chiefs, leaders, or authorized representatives of Oyotunji African Village,” the statement reads. “Their actions are misleading, culturally exploitative, and rooted in the pursuit of personal fame and financial gain.”
The advisory also addressed specific claims by Olamiji Pearse, who has referred to herself as the “Queen of Oyotunji” and CEO of the so-called Royal Way Cultural Tourism Agency. According to the release, Pearse and her mother, Kimberly Washington, were previously arrested in South Carolina following an incident in which they allegedly attempted to physically assault the reigning monarch, Oba Adefunmi II, and Yeye Oba Ifabunmi Adefunmi on sacred grounds. The incident reportedly led to the public denouncement and legal restraining orders issued against both women.
“Their behavior violated not only the civil statutes of South Carolina but also the cultural protocols of the Oyotunji Kingdom,” the statement emphasized.
The Oyotunji African Village is calling on the public, media organizations, and institutions to exercise due diligence and verify any titles or claims of affiliation through official channels. The village also warned that any continued impersonation or misrepresentation would be met with serious legal consequences.
“We are actively working with the appropriate legal and regulatory bodies to ensure this matter is addressed fully and in accordance with the law,” the statement concluded.
For official verification and inquiries, the public is encouraged to contact Oyotunji Village via its official website and communication channels.
