Palace suspends celebration marking late Oba Victor Okunola’s 84th birthday

By Adejayan Gbenga

The palace of the first crowned king of Egbeda in Oyo State has announced the immediate suspension of all celebratory activities planned to mark the 84th posthumous birthday of the late Oba Victor Sunday Olatunde Aremu Okunola (JP), Oosagade I.

The announcement was contained in an official statement signed by Prince Eric Okunola (JP), who said the decision was taken as a mark of respect following the recent death of a prominent matriarch within the royal family.

The suspension affects the activities earlier scheduled for September 27, 2026, which were expected to commemorate the life, legacy and contributions of the late traditional ruler.

Oba Okunola, who was regarded as a revered patriarch in Egbeda, passed away on May 14, 2024.

Instead of the planned public festivities, the palace will observe a period of solemn reflection in honour of the late monarch and the deceased matriarch.

The royal family expressed gratitude to members of the public and the local community for their understanding and continued support during the period of mourning and transition.

The palace also urged subjects and well-wishers to join the family in quiet remembrance, stressing that the suspension of public celebrations was necessary to preserve the dignity of the family following its recent loss.

According to the statement, attention will now shift towards organising a comprehensive tribute to the late monarch next year. The palace disclosed that a major double celebration is being projected for September 27, 2027, when the late Oba Okunola’s 85th birthday anniversary will be commemorated.