The Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland, Osun State, Nigeria, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, has passed away at the age of 86. The revered monarch, who was a first-class traditional ruler in Osun State, died after 42 years of impactful reign.
The announcement was made by the Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Chief Yinka Fasuyi, who described the late monarch’s death as a monumental loss for the Ijesha people. In an emotional tribute, Fasuyi stated: “An era comes to an abrupt end! A monumental history closes! The lion departs the forest!”
The tribute continued, praising Oba Aromolaran’s legacy: “The torchbearer of Oduduwa relocates! The elegance of Ijesaland royalty takes a bow! The pride of Yoruba traditional intellectualism exits! The conscience of Yoruba traditional rulers departs!”
The tribute also highlighted the late Oba’s influence and enduring legacy: “Ijesaland celebrates the life of her idol! Ijesaland extolls the life of our Imperial Majesty! Ijesaland eulogises the reign of our Owa Obokun Adimula! Ijesaland applauds the legacy of our paramount ruler!”
Fasuyi concluded by noting the deep respect and admiration held for the monarch across generations, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora: “42 years of monumental reign comes to a glorious end! Ijesa women and men, young and old, at home and in the diaspora, in unison, say adieu to our Baba Kaaaaaaabiyeeesiiiii Alaiyeluwa Oba (Dr) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, CFR, LL.D.; the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid tribute to the late monarch. In a heartfelt message posted on his verified X account, he expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating, “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.”
Atiku continued, “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. Amen,” he concluded.
The passing of Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran marks the end of an era for the Ijesa people, who now mourn the departure of a deeply respected and influential leader.
