Onipokia’s death: LG Chairman Avoseh extols monarch’s legacy of service, leadership

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Executive Chairman of Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, Hon. Johnson Akohomeh Avoseh, has led tributes to the late Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Yisa ‘Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, Orijajogun I, Oshigin II, describing him as a visionary monarch whose reign was defined by peace, cultural revival, community development and selfless service to his people.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of the government and people of Ipokia Local Government, Avoseh expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the revered monarch, extending condolences to the Iwaye Dodo Royal Family, the Ipokia Traditional Council, the Council of Chiefs and the entire people of the ancient kingdom.

Oba Olaniyan, the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, died in the United States after a brief illness at the age of 55, bringing to an end a reign that began in August 2020. Before ascending the throne, he built a successful professional career in the United States, where he studied Criminal Justice and worked across the aviation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors.

Paying glowing tribute to the late monarch, Avoseh said Kabiyesi discharged his responsibilities with wisdom, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the peace, unity and progress of Ipokia Kingdom.

Late Oba Olaniyan and Ikpokia LG Chairman Hon Avoseh

“His Royal Majesty was a worthy custodian of our traditions and values. His fatherly disposition, humility and devotion to cultural preservation, peace and community development earned him the admiration and respect of his people and beyond,” the council chairman said.

He noted that the late monarch would be remembered for promoting harmony, inclusive leadership and strengthening the cultural identity of the kingdom, adding that his exemplary reign had left an enduring legacy for future generations.

During his reign, Oba Olaniyan championed education, youth empowerment, investment in Ipokia and stronger engagement with the Nigerian diaspora. He was also recognised nationally for his contributions to cultural preservation and community development, earning induction into the Nigerian Books of Record Hall of Fame in 2025.

Beyond the palace, the late monarch was widely known as the founder of the Afro-Heritage Broadcasting and Entertainment Awards (AHBEA), an initiative established to celebrate African culture and excellence in the entertainment industry.

Since news of his passing broke, tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders, traditional rulers, community groups, members of the Nigerian diaspora and entertainment personalities. President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji Amusan (Mr Latin), described him as a humble, generous and compassionate royal father, while actress Seyi Edun said she was “still in shock,” praying for the repose of the monarch’s soul and comfort for his family.

Praying for the peaceful repose of the monarch, Avoseh asked God to comfort the royal household and grant wisdom to those entrusted with preserving the customs and traditions of Ipokia Kingdom.

“As Kabiyesi journeys to join his revered ancestors, we pray that the Almighty God will strengthen the royal family, uphold the traditional institution and sustain the peace and unity of Ipokia Kingdom. May the shining legacy of Oba Yisa ‘Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, Orijajogun I, Oshigin II, continue to inspire generations yet unborn,” he said.