By Dapo Akinrefon

The Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, on Friday, said memories of the late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran II, will always linger on, saying Yoruba land has lost one of the illustrious sons.

Adams, in a statement made by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Kehinde Aderemi, described the death of the first class monarch as a great loss, adding that the late Oba Aromolaran was a great monarch, a teacher and manager of men, whose ideas and vision would be useful to young generation of today.
The Yoruba generalissimo also described the late monarch as a repository of knowledge, wisdom and understanding,especially, on the Yoruba traditional institution.

He said: “We have lost one of the great custodians of Yoruba culture and tradition.The late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Kabiesi Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, made remarkable impact in the education sector.

“He was a teacher, an author and Publisher of many books.His contributions through many of his books and publications remained one of the greatest legacies that could hardly be forgotten.

“Kabiesi’s approach to issues, especially, his advocacy for what was right and fair,and his protection of the vulnerable from exploitation was a major factor that stood him out among other Yoruba monarchs.

“He was not a turncoat.He stood high with his belief in the unity and progress of Yoruba race and his love for Yoruba culture and tradition cannot be over-emphasized.

“The late Oba Aromolaran’s life was a reflection of the values of Yoruba culture and African tradition. His respect for these values and systems were unwavering.

“In his life, Kabiesi was a man of the people.His 42- year reign on the throne of his forebears was devoid of rancour,unnecessary frictions and controversies.That made him an outstanding monarch in Yoruba land.

“He occupied the throne with honour and respect.And at 86,he remained a strong advocate of justice and fairness.

“So, as we mourn the passing of our revered monarch,I extend my condolences to the Osun state government, the good people of Ijesaland, and the family of the late traditional ruler.

“And I pray God to grant the soul of the late monarch eternal rest.”