Barrister Abiodun Aribisala, Founder and CEO of the Aribisala Care Foundation, esteemed international tax consultant, and prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ijesa North and Osun State, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the people of Ijesaland and Osun State, both at home and abroad, over the demise of Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, PhD, CFR, the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland and the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland.
Oba Aromolaran, born on October 13, 1937, was a distinguished writer, teacher, and publisher, known for authoring approximately 100 books, many of which were used as official titles for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) O and A level examinations. He ascended the throne in 1982, succeeding Oba Peter Adeniran Olatunji Agunlejika II (1912-1982).
Remarkably, Oba Aromolaran was the first Nigerian monarch to hold a PhD in Economics. His first book, Economics for West Africa, was published in 1966, a collaborative work with his colleagues Alabi Ogun and Areoye Oyebola. Before ascending the throne, he left the old Oyo State civil service on December 1, 1971, to become a full-time publisher and established Aromolaran Publishing Limited, which he managed until he became the traditional ruler in 1982.
Even as the Paramount Ruler of the Ijesas, Oba Aromolaran remained dedicated to writing, publishing 14 educational books while serving as the Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola. His literary contributions have left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Nigeria.
In his condolence message, Barrister Abiodun Aribisala prayed that the Almighty God would comfort the families, community, monarchs, and the state left behind by the late Oba. He expressed hope that the legacy of Oba Dr. Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran will continue to inspire future generations.
Barrister Aribisala further described Oba Aromolaran II as a beacon of wisdom and culture whose leadership brought unity and progress to Ijesaland and Osun State at large. He praised the late monarch’s dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Ijesas, his visionary approach to governance, and his unwavering commitment to the development of his community. According to him, Oba Aromolaran’s reign was marked by peace, progress, and prosperity, and his departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all.
Reflecting on Oba Aromolaran’s achievements, Barrister Aribisala emphasized the monarch’s significant contributions to education, both in Nigeria and beyond. He noted that the late king’s scholarly pursuits, especially his notable publications, enriched the academic landscape and provided invaluable resources for students and educators alike. Aribisala commended Oba Aromolaran’s dedication to intellectual growth and his unique ability to merge traditional leadership with modern educational ideals.
As the people of Ijesaland and Osun State mourn this great loss, Barrister Aribisala called on the community to honor Oba Aromolaran’s memory by upholding the values of unity, education, and cultural preservation. He urged everyone to remember the remarkable life and legacy of the late monarch, whose wisdom, kindness, and leadership will continue to serve as a guiding light for generations to come.
