Obasanjo mourns Osun monarch, Oba Aromolaran

Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo expressed his condolences on Thursday following the death of Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, the Owa-Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland in Osun State. Oba Aromolaran, who passed away at the age of 86, was remembered as a revered leader and custodian of cultural values.

In a condolence message released by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo extended his sympathies to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and the people of Ijesaland.

He described the late monarch as a patriot who played a pivotal role in advocating for peace, understanding, and development in the region.

Obasanjo noted, “His wise counsel, inspiring leadership, and consistently dependable support will be greatly missed. His formidable contributions to the development of his community, the state, and the country will remain indelible in the memory of all who had the privilege to know him.”

He noted the late Oba Aromolaran’s service to the nation, saying, “It is a measure of his selfless and qualitative service to our dear country that he was honoured with the revered national award of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).”

Obasanjo also praised the monarch’s intellectual achievements, stating, “The late Oba epitomised the qualities of an eminent scholar who excelled in all intellectual pursuits relevant to the award of a doctorate degree in Development Economics.”

The former President remembered Oba Aromolaran’s enduring contribution to literature and education, noting, “He was a renowned author and publisher of many books for use in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions both in Nigeria and overseas. His publishing house, Aromolaran Publishers, achieved significant success.”

Obasanjo urged the chiefs of Ijesaland, the people of Osun State, and Oba Aromolaran’s family to take comfort in the legacy he has left behind, acknowledging the profound impact of his passing at a crucial time for the nation.