Gov Adeleke, Oyetola mourn late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

Describing him as a father figure and strong advocate for the state’s development, both leaders paid tribute to the late monarch, whose death was confirmed by Chief Olayinka Fasuyi.

In his condolence message, Governor Adeleke acknowledged the immense contributions of Oba Aromolaran, noting that his absence will be deeply felt by the people of Osun State.

The statement reads: “Kabiyesi was a deeply selfless father, who took no prisoners when it came to the matters of development and wellbeing of the people. He was a friend of good governance, no matter the colour or race.

“The last time I was with him was the flag off of the dualisation of Brewery-Palace road. I am glad our late erudite scholar witnessed a new phase of development for Ijeshaland.”

Also, Mr Oyetola, a former Osun Governor in a statement by his spokesperson, Ismail Omipidan described the late monarch as an embodiment of royalty whose entire life was spent to serve God and humanity.

Oyetola said: “I received the news of the passage of our revered paramount ruler of Ijesaland with a rude shock. Kabiyesi was known for brilliance, bravery and bluntness as these virtues, exhibited throughout his reign, culminated in many successes recorded not only in Ijesaland but in the state and the country as a whole.

“No doubt, the departed Aromolaran was an epitome of culture, character, integrity and dignity. Being the symbol of Ijesas, he spent his entire life serving God and humanity. His 42 years reign indeed witnessed myriad of developments cutting across different aspects of life.

“We shall forever remember him for his valour, commitment and love for humanity and we pray God to rest his soul. My heartfelt condolences to the Oloris, children and family of the monarch, as well as the entire people of Ijesaland and Osun state traditional council, over the demise. May God grant the bereaved family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.”

Owa-in-Council declares 7-day curfew, mourning

Meanwhile, following the demise of the monarch, the Owa-in-Council has declared a seven-day curfew and mourning period in Ijesaland.

Announcing the decision after a meeting of the council in Ilesa on Thursday, the Ogboni of Ipole-Ijesa, Oba Oyegbade Oyeleye said the curfew takes effect from 10 pm to 6am.

Oyeleye said: “There will be a curfew from Thursday, starting from 10 pm to 6 am. The curfew will run for seven days. Also, from Friday, all markets shall be closed in all of Ijesaland for three days because our king reigns all over Ijesaland, including Ilesa West, East, Atakumosa East, West, Oriade and Obokun Local Government Areas of Osun State.”