Owa of Idanre kingdom, Oba Frederick Aroloye, passes on

The Owa of Idanre Kingdom, Oba Frederick Adegunle Aroloye, Arubiefin IV, has passed away at the age of 102. The revered monarch, who was the oldest first-class monarch in Nigeria, ascended the throne in 1976.

His death, following a brief illness, was announced on Wednesday by High Chief Christopher Akindolire, the Lisa of Idanre and traditional Prime Minister of the kingdom.

During his nearly 50-year reign, Oba Aroloye was celebrated for his passionate commitment to his people, fairness in judgment, and efforts to promote the culture and traditions of Idanre. His leadership brought significant development, progress, and numerous transformational innovations to the hilly community.

“He will be remembered for his passionate love of his people, fairness, impartial judgements, promotion of the culture and tradition of his people, and above all, his fear of God,” a source close to the palace stated.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed his condolences to the people of Idanre, describing the monarch’s passing as a monumental loss to the community, the state, and Yorubaland.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, Aiyedatiwa highlighted Oba Aroloye’s role as a respected and peace-loving leader.

“Within the almost 50 years of his reign, Oba Aroloye promoted communal peace and stability while deploying his rich experience in the traditional leadership of Idanreland,” the governor noted.

Gbenga Edema, the governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), also paid tribute to the late monarch. Edema emphasized the indelible impact Oba Aroloye had on the development and cultural heritage of Idanre, describing him as a beacon of positive change.

“His reign was marked by progress, innovation, and a deep-seated love for the traditions of Idanre,” Edema said. “Oba Aroloye’s dedication to preserving the culture and heritage of Idanre has left an indelible mark on the community, and his passion for the well-being of his subjects has endeared him to the hearts of many.”