Ooni Of Ife’s Death Confirmed

I do appreciate the vast pain that the unfortunate death of the Late Oba Okunade Sijuwade has caused his Oloris, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and the entire people of the Kingdom of Ife in particular and Osun state in general, who must be grieving at the demise of the Oba.

“Without any iota of doubt, Oba Sijuwade was a forthright traditional ruler, and an astute businessman, who for decades helped to pursue and unite the common interests of the Yoruba race“.

He said after the Oro rites and proclamation, subsequent rites would follow.

The governor described Oba Sijuwade as a monarch, who during his lifetime, did everything humanly possible to promote the Yoruba tradition across the globe.

He also urged them to take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life and left behind a worthy legacy for his successor.

In a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Habib Aruna, Ambode said the late first class monarch would be sorely missed for his fatherly role and advice.

He said he had discussed the content of the message with the Ife Royal Traditional Council during his meeting with them in Osogbo when they visited him on the happenings within the monarchy.

“Among other virtues, the Ooni dedicated himself to the service of the nation, and as long as we are alive, we must remember him for many things“.

Ajimobi also praised the late monarch for his commitment to the sustenance of cultural heritage in the country.

A former governor of the state, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who described Oba Sijuwade as a father, confidant, mentor, nationalist and a rare patriot, prayed for the repose of his soul.

“Kabiyesi ascended the throne better prepared than most for the uniquely critical leadership role of the Ooni in Yoruba land”. And he possessed ample personal attributes of kindness, generosity and tolerance, amongst many others, to make his reign the outstanding success that it turned out to be.

Mr. Aregbesola dropped the hint on Friday in Osogbo at a special session of the Osun State House of Assembly marking the 50th birthday of the Speaker, Najeem Salaam.