The Owa-in-Council on Friday announced that the traditional rites for the late Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, have commenced.

Oba Aromolaran passed away on Wednesday due to an age-related illness, but his death was not confirmed until Thursday afternoon by the Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Chief Yinka Fasuyi.

Addressing journalists at the Owa’s palace in Ilesa, on behalf of the Obaala of Ilesa, Chief Adeniyi Ibitoye, and other members of the council, the Odole Owa of Ijesaland, Chief Adebola Orolugbagbe, stated that the traditional rites for the late ruler will continue for the next 90 days.

Orolugbagbe, the traditional Prime Minister of the palace, confirmed that the Owa-in-Council had not declared a curfew in any part of the town.

However, he noted that markets across the community would remain closed until September 21 and that the Owa’s traditional palace had been shut.

“All markets across Ijesaland shall remain closed for seven days, starting from the 14th and ending on September 20, 2024. All markets shall reopen on September 21, 2024.

“No curfew is imposed anywhere in Ijesaland. Therefore, all citizens are encouraged to continue their normal daily lives and activities.

“The traditional palace at Okemese shall remain closed with immediate effect while all activities are suspended until further notice. Traditional transition rites shall continue for 90 days,” Orolugbagbe said.

Commenting on the life and legacy of Oba Aromolaran, Orolugbagbe described Ijesaland as having lost a rare gem, a father to all, and a quintessential traditional ruler who managed the affairs of the entire Ijesaland for 42 years.

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He urged Ijesa indigenes to remain peaceful and to keep the family of Oba Aromolaran in their prayers.

Meanwhile, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, in his tribute to the late royal father, described Oba Aromolaran as a quintessential monarch with exceptional intellectual capacity and wisdom.

Aregbesola’s tribute read, “With his sterling education and sagacity, he uplifted the throne and the institution of his forebears. He maintained his dignity even in an era of declining traditional rulership.

“He was a father to me throughout my two-term governorship in the state. He was also my life coach and advisor in virtually every area of life and governance.

“He was a monumental figure, a giant among men, an inimitable ruler with a unique appeal. His ascension to the throne was seen as the coming of the lion. He lived like a lion, dominating his territory and earning respect and fear beyond measure. But now, the lion is gone.”

Similarly, Mr. Oluremi Omowaiye, Executive Director of projects Implementation) at the Federal Housing Authority, praised the departed monarch for his exceptional qualities.
Omowaiye said, “Kabiyesi Aromolaran was a worthy father and a quintessential imperial majesty who dedicated his life to the welfare of his subjects.

“We celebrate the life of this great scholar, author, publisher, accomplished civil servant, and traditional leader, even as we mourn his absence at a time when his profound counsel and guidance are needed most.”

Omowaiye, a former Osun State Commissioner for Works and Transport, also extended his condolences to the wives, children, and all sons and daughters of Ijesaland, describing Oba Aromolaran’s 42-year reign as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s traditional institution.