Owa Obokun’s death: Owa-in-Council suspends palace activities, no curfew imposed

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

Following the demise of Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, the Owa-in-Council (AgbaIjesa) has suspended all palace activities until further notice to observe traditional rites.

The council clarified that no curfew has been imposed across Ijesaland, encouraging citizens to continue their daily activities without disruption.

Addressing the media at the Owa Obokun Adimula Palace in Ilesa on Friday, Royal High Chief Adebola Orolugbagbe, Odole Owa of Ijesaland and the traditional Prime Minister of the Palace, announced that the traditional transition rites will continue for 90 days.

He also declared that all markets in Ijesaland will remain closed for seven days, from September 14 to September 20, 2024, with reopening scheduled for September 21, 2024.

In his words: “It is with great sadness that I, Royal High Chief Adebola Orolugbagbe, Odole Owa of Ijesaland and the traditional Prime Minister of the Palace, on behalf of the AgbaIjesa of Ijesaland, the Aafin Owa Obokun Adimula, and the good people of Ijesaland, announce the ascension to the greater realm of His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, PhD, CFR, LLD, Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland. His passing occurred between the 11th and 12th of September, 2024.

“Therefore, please take note of the following:

• All markets across Ijesaland shall remain closed for seven days, starting from September 14 to September 20, 2024. Markets will reopen on September 21, 2024.
• No curfew is imposed anywhere in Ijesaland. Citizens are encouraged to continue with their normal daily lives.
• The traditional palace at Okemese is closed immediately, and all activities are suspended until further notice. The traditional transition rites will continue for 90 days.”

Orolugbagbe praised the late Oba Aromolaran, describing him as a father to all and an exemplary traditional ruler who brought peace, unity, and development to Ijesaland during his reign. He urged the people to pray for the late monarch’s family and the entire community, adding that further updates will be communicated through official palace channels.

Meanwhile, the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described Oba Aromolaran’s death as a significant loss to Yorubaland and the entire Oduduwa race worldwide.

In a statement signed by Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs for the Ooni’s palace, Oba Ogunwusi noted that the late monarch was a pillar of wisdom and unity who contributed greatly to the development of Yoruba land.

“Although his departure is a great loss for our nation, we must also celebrate the rich legacy he leaves behind, which will continue to inspire future generations. The House of Oduduwa extends heartfelt sympathy to the royal family, the Ijesa community, the Osun State Government, the Oduduwa race, and all who cherished Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II.”

In addition, the former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, offered his condolences to the people of Ijesaland, the late king’s chiefs, and his immediate and extended family.

He described Oba Aromolaran’s ascension to the throne as the arrival of a lion, saying, “He lived like a lion, dominating his territory, feared and respected beyond. But now, the lion is gone.”

Aregbesola extended his sympathies to the Osun State Government, the people of Ijesaland, and the royal family, praying for comfort and strength to bear the irreplaceable loss.