Prime minister of Ife, Omisakin, dies at 83

The people of the ancient town of Ile-Ife, Osun state was again thrown into mourning yesterday following the sudden death of the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Solomon Folorunso Omisakin.

Omisakin, the Prime Minister and second-in-command to the Ooni of Ife reportedly died about 10.00 am yesterday at the age 0f 83.

He was on sick bed for an undisclosed ailment in July when the Ooni of Ife Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse 11 joined his ancestors. He recovered and later led the Ife Traditional Council to officially announce the demise of the monarch to governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Omisakin, who is the second in command to Ooni of Ife and leader of Ife 16 kingmakers [both right and left} passed on in the early hours of yesterday.

Obalufe’s death may slow down the selection process of the new Ooni of Ife, which has been bogged down by litigations by the Lafogido and Osikola ruling houses.

When The Guardian visited the residence of the deceased at Iremo quarters in Ile-Ife yesterday, his family, relations and sympathisers were seen discussing the development in groups.

The Guardian learnt that in line with Ife tradition, a mourning period would be announced followed by a befitting burial before the conclusion of selection process of new Ooni.

A source revealed that his demise might not have any serious implication on the selection process adding that the next in rank to Omisakin, the Lowa of Ife, Oba Joseph Ijaodola would step in to take charge of functions of Obalufe who has the sole responsibility to make official pronouncement of the new Ooni of Ife