A seven-day curfew has been imposed in six local government areas of Osun State following the death of Oba Adekunle Gabriel Aromolaran, the Owa Obokun of Ijesa land.
The 87-year-old monarch passed away on Wednesday evening after a brief illness, ending his 42-year reign.
The affected local government areas, which constitute Ijesa land are Ilesa East, Ilesa West, Atakunmosa East, Atakunmosa West, Ori-Ade, and Obokun.
The Ogboni of Ipole-Ijesa, Oba Oyebade Samson Kehinde Oyeleye, speaking on behalf of the Owa-in-Council and kingmakers, announced that the curfew will run from 10 pm to 6 am daily, effective Thursday
Additionally, all markets in the affected areas will be closed for three days.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, through his spokesperson Olawale Rasheed, expressed his condolences over the monarch’s death.
He described the late Oba as “a father figure, a pillar of support, and a teacher” committed to the development of Ijesa land and Osun State.
Adeleke added, “Kabiyesi was a deeply selfless father, who took no prisoners when it came to matters of development and wellbeing of the people. He was a friend of good governance, no matter the colour or race.
“The last time I was with him was the flag off of the dualisation of Brewery – Palace road. I am glad our late erudite scholar witnessed a new phase of development for Ijeshaland.”
Former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, praised the late monarch’s contributions to the state and nation.
“Kabiesi was known for brilliance, bravery and bluntness as these virtues, exhibited throughout his reign, culminated to many successes recorded not only in Ijesaland but in the state and the country as a whole.
“No doubt, the departed Aromolaran was an epitome of culture, character, integrity and dignity. Being the symbol of Ijesas, he spent all his entire life to serve God and humanity. His over 42 years reign indeed witnessed a myriad of developments cutting across different aspects of life,” said Oyetola.
Prince Dotun Babayemi, a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun West Senatorial District, described the monarch’s passing as a big loss.
“Late Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran was a highly principled traditional ruler whose body of knowledge and reign, will never be forgotten in our history.
“He occupied his space robustly and contributed immensely to the growth and development of our dear state, Osun and beyond,” stated Babayemi.
Governor Ademola AdelekeOba Adekunle Gabriel Aromolaran IIOba Oyebade Samson Kehinde Oyeleye
