By Sola Ojewusi
The House of Oduduwa has formally announced the funeral programme for the late Prince Adetunji Adeyemi Adisa Ogunwusi, whose passing on July 18, 2026, has left the ancient kingdom of Ile-Ife, the Ogunwusi Royal Family and admirers across Yorubaland in profound mourning. The revered prince was 58 years old.
In a funeral invitation issued on behalf of the family, the House of Oduduwa described the late prince as “a Titan,” a tribute that captures the remarkable life, strength of character, and enduring legacy of a man who devoted himself to his family, his people and the preservation of the rich traditions of the Source.
According to the announcement, a Service of Songs will hold on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Ojaja Arena, Ile-Ife Grand Resort, Ile-Ife/Ibadan Expressway, Ile-Ife, Osun State. Guests attending the solemn event are requested to be dressed in all white.
The final funeral service will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, Ayegbaju, Ile-Ife, Osun State. The family has designated purple and white as the official dress code for the service. Interment will follow immediately at the late prince’s residence in Ile-Ife.
The announcement, endorsed by the House of Oduduwa under the authority of the Ooni of Ife, extends a warm invitation to family members, friends, associates and well-wishers to join in celebrating the life of the departed prince, noting that their prayers and presence will be deeply cherished.
The death of Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi marked the loss of not only an elder statesman within the Ogunwusi Royal Family but also one of the respected sons of Ile-Ife whose life reflected dignity, humility, loyalty and unwavering commitment to the values of the Yoruba people. As the immediate elder brother of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, he stood as a dependable pillar within the royal household, offering wisdom, stability and quiet strength through the years.
Those who knew him remember a man of exceptional warmth, generous spirit and uncommon grace. Though he carried the honour of royal birth with distinction, he remained approachable, compassionate and deeply devoted to the welfare of those around him. His life was a shining testament to the timeless virtues of service, integrity and respect for tradition.
As preparations begin for his final journey, tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating a prince whose influence extended far beyond the palace walls. His passing closes a significant chapter in the history of the House of Oduduwa, yet his legacy of honour, humility, family devotion and commitment to Yoruba heritage will continue to inspire generations.
Indeed, Prince Adetunji Adeyemi Adisa Ogunwusi lived as a true son of Oduduwa and departs this world as one whose footprints will remain indelibly etched in the history of Ile-Ife. Though the royal family mourns the loss of a beloved brother and patriarch, his memory will forever endure as that of a titan whose life enriched the House of Oduduwa and the Yoruba nation. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
