PRESS RELEASE
June 25, 2025
Subject: Public Advisory from Oyotunji African Village: Impersonation of Royal Titles and Cultural Authority
The leadership of Oyotunji African Village is issuing a firm public statement to address and condemn the ongoing false representation by individuals fraudulently claiming leadership or affiliation with our sacred institution.
This includes Bobajiro Olajide Makinde Wilkerson, Eketa Oba Adetokun Oyewole Meredith, Olamiji Pearse, and Kimberly Washington – all of whom have engaged in unauthorized activities under false titles and fraudulent claims of authority or cultural affiliation with Oyotunji African Village. Let it be clearly stated that the above-named individuals are not, and have never been, chiefs, leaders, or authorized representatives of Oyotunji African Village.
Their actions are misleading, culturally exploitative, and rooted in the pursuit of personal fame and financial gain. These individuals are imposters and charlatans, and their conduct is a direct affront to the royal family, our legacy, and the spiritual traditions we uphold.
Specifically, Olamiji Pearse, who now refers to herself as “Queen of Oyotunji” and CEO of the so-called Royal Way Cultural Tourism Agency, has no legitimate standing or authority within the Oyotunji African Village. She and her mother, Kimberly Washington, were arrested and detained by law enforcement in the State of South Carolina following an incident in which they attempted to physically assault the reigning king, Oba Adefunmi II, and Yeye Oba Ifabunmi Adefunmi on sacred grounds.
This act of aggression led to the Oba publicly divorcing and denouncing Olamiji Pierce, and legal restraining orders were subsequently issued against both individuals.
Their behavior violated both the civil statutes of the State of South Carolina and the cultural protocols of the Oyotunji Kingdom. We urge the public, media, and institutions to verify any claims of leadership, title, or affiliation directly with our official representatives.
Any continued impersonation or misrepresentation will be treated as a serious offense and may result in legal action. Official inquiries may be directed to our official website and communication channels. We are actively working with the appropriate legal and regulatory bodies to ensure this matter is addressed in full accordance with the law.
Thank you to our community and supporters for your vigilance and commitment to truth and cultural integrity. With love, peace, and light,
H.R.H. Yeye Oba Ifabunmi O.A. Adefunmi Sands
This correspondence is issued by H.R.H. Yeye Oba Fabunmi Adefunmi, the Yeye Oba of Oyotunji Village, United Nations Delegate for the African Cultural Development Foundation (ACDF), and Peace Ambassador designated by His Imperial Majesty Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi CFR, Ojaja II
Kingdom of Oyotunji | 56 Bryant Lane, Seabrook, SC 29940 | www.Oyotunji.org
