Lateef Adedimeji Clears the Air After Ooni Visit Backlash: ‘I Didn’t Intentionally Leave My Wife Behind’

Nollywood actor Lateef Adedimeji has responded to criticism from fans following his recent visit to the palace of the Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi without his wife, actress Adebimpe Oyebade.

The award-winning actor took to his social media page to explain that his wife was unable to accompany him because she has been occupied with caring for their triplets, dismissing suggestions that he deliberately excluded her from the royal meeting.

Addressing the reactions, Lateef wrote humorously:

"First and foremost, lemme quickly explain that I didn’t intentionally go to see His Imperial Majesty, the Oonirisa without wifey. She’s busy with the triplets. E mabinu."

The actor went on to describe the visit as a memorable and inspiring experience, revealing that he cherished the opportunity to spend time with one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional rulers.

According to him, his conversation with the monarch was filled with wisdom and life lessons that he considers invaluable.

"It was great spending time with Kabiesi at the palace yesterday. Drinking water from his well of wisdom is part of what makes a man in life; I don’t take these moments for granted."

Lateef also expressed admiration for the atmosphere of the palace, describing it as a place that blends culture, luxury, spirituality, and tradition.

"From the warm welcome from the palace family to the welcoming aura of Kabiesi himself, I still feel goosebumps from yesterday. It’s all gratitude from me because that little boy of yesterday is now dining with actual kings."

Reflecting on his journey, the actor noted that moments like these remind him of how far he has come in life and in his career.

"There’s something about this palace that screams class! The pristine nature, the luxurious air, the spiritual feel, the taste of home. What an experience."

The visit comes during what has been a remarkable period for Lateef and his family. The actor recently celebrated major success at the 12th edition of the AMVCA, where his film Lisabi won awards for Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa) and Best Makeup.

Fame, Family and Public Expectations

The reactions to Lateef's palace visit highlight a growing trend in celebrity culture where fans closely follow every public appearance and often expect couples to attend major events together.

While such expectations are usually rooted in admiration, they can sometimes create unnecessary speculation when one partner is absent. In this case, Lateef's explanation serves as a reminder that public figures still have family responsibilities that may not always be visible to the public.

His response also reflects the balancing act many celebrity couples face—maintaining successful careers while raising young children and navigating intense public attention.

Perhaps the most striking part of Lateef's message was not the clarification about his wife's absence but his gratitude. His reflections on moving from humble beginnings to sharing moments with traditional royalty reveal an actor who remains conscious of his journey despite his growing success.

For many fans, that sense of humility may be the biggest takeaway from the entire episode.