Here’s a list of all the Ooni of Ife, the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife — regarded as the spiritual head of the Yoruba people. The Ooni throne is one of the most respected royal institutions in Nigeria, believed to be descended from Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race.
List of All Oonis of Ife (Chronological Order)
| # | Name | Notable Info |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oduduwa | First Ooni, founder of the Yoruba people |
| 2 | Ooni Okanbi | Son of Oduduwa |
| 3 | Ooni Ogun | Known as a warrior king |
| 4 | Ooni Wumonije | — |
| 5 | Ooni Oranmiyan | Founder of Oyo and Benin dynasties |
| 6 | Ooni Adekola Telu | — |
| 7 | Ooni Lafogido | One of the four legendary Oonis |
| 8 | Ooni Lajamisan | — |
| 9 | Ooni Lajodoogun | Father of Ooni Akinmoyero |
| 10 | Ooni Ayetise | — |
| 11 | Ooni Oluwodiran | — |
| 12 | Ooni Aworokolokin | — |
| 13 | Ooni Ekun | — |
| 14 | Ooni Ologbenla | — |
| 15 | Ooni Gboonijio | — |
| 16 | Ooni Akinmoyero | Reigned in 18th century |
| 17 | Ooni Gbanlare | — |
| 18 | Ooni Osinlade | — |
| 19 | Ooni Adagba | — |
| 20 | Ooni Ojigidiri | — |
| 21 | Ooni Akinmuyi | — |
| 22 | Ooni Adelekan Olubuse I | Reigned 1894–1910 |
| 23 | Ooni Ademiluyi Ajagun | Reigned 1910–1930 |
| 24 | Ooni Adesoji Aderemi | Reigned 1930–1980, first Ooni to become a governor in Nigeria (Western Region) |
| 25 | Ooni Okunade Sijuwade (Olubuse II) | Reigned 1980–2015 |
| 26 | Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II) | Reigning since 2015, known for youth engagement and modern reforms |
Fun Fact:
The Ooni’s full regnal name includes “Ojaja,” a title passed down to symbolize continuity of Oduduwa’s lineage.
Let me know if you want:
- A family tree diagram of the Oonis
- Cultural or historical roles of the Ooni
- Info on current Ooni’s initiatives or controversies
