September 12, (THEWILL) – The paramount ruler of Ijesaland (Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland) in Osun State, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, is dead.
The Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Olayinka Fasuyi, confirmed the death in a tribute to the late frontline traditional ruler, saying, “A monumental history closes.”
Mourning the monarch, Chief Fasuyi, in a statement he titled: “Farewell, the Ijesa Quintessential Imperial Majesty”, paid glowing tribute to Oba Aromolaran, describing him as a lion, torch bearer of Oduduwa, symbol of Obokun Ademola and pride of Yoruba traditional intellectualism.
Oba Aromolaran, who ascended the throne on February 20, 1982, spent 42 years on the throne. He was 87.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed his deep sorrow over the death.
He said the late monarch’s fatherly warmth was more than just a father-in-law but a symbol of courage, boldness, and discipline emblematic of the Ijesa people.
“With a heavy heart, I received the news of the passing of the Owa Obokun of Ijesha land, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran.
“The late Owa was more than a father-in-law to me. Each time I visited him, he accorded me the homecoming welcome of a son. We all loved him dearly. He was a great monarch and personified the boldness, courage, and discipline of the Ijesha progeny.
“On behalf of my wife, Titi, I share my condolences with the Owa-in-Council and the entire indigenes and residents of Ijesha land, especially members of the royal family.
“As Oba Aromolaran turns his face to his maker, I pray that his soul finds a gentle repose,” Atiku wrote on X.
Atiku’s wife, Titi, is from Ilesa in Osun State.
