The Osun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is saddened by the demise of the paramount ruler of Ijesaland, Oba (Dr) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran CFR, LLD, who joined his ancestors on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the age of 87.
Oba Aromolaran’s reign, which began in 1982, was marked by courage, principle, and fearlessness. He was a colossus in the traditional institution in Nigeria and a blessing to the great kingdom of Ijesa.
The PDP recalls Oba Aromolaran’s remarkable strides on the throne spanning over 4 decades, including being the first Nigerian Oba to hold a PhD in Economics and publishing his book, “Economics for West Africa,” in 1966.
His Majesty’s patriotic bravery was evident in his attendance at the inauguration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999, despite hash political sentiments against the election in several quarters in the Southwest. He also refused to be coerced by the then military dictator, Sanni Abacha, into indicting General Oladipo Diya, through a high-tech manipulation of traditional institutions in Yoruba land.
It is on record that Baba Aromolaran was the only prominent traditional ruler who refused to be cajoled by either force of the smoking gun barrels, or the alluring sight of ‘bulion vans’ by the then maximum ruler into watching a trumped up video clip, indicting such a prominent son of yoruba land, General Oladipo Diya, who was about to be put to the gallows for the phantom coup allegation by the then Military dictator. Kabiyesi was indeed courageous and fearless in his Majesty!
Baba was a book all sons and daughters of Ijesa cannot exhaust. He stood stoutly as an unblemished Ambassador of his kingdom. He neither wavered nor compromised his integrity as a father of all who came his way.
As a political party, His Majesty’s principled support for the PDP would remain evergreen with us. The leadership of our great party and indeed, our members are grateful for everything that was done for us by Baba when we needed his support.
Rest on and rest well Kabiyesi, Omo Owa, Omo Ẹkùn!
Signed:
Hon Sunday Bisi
Osun State PDP Chairman
12/09/2024
