Onipokia of Ipokia, Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, Joins His Ancestors
Onipokia of Ipokia, Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, Orijajoogun I, has joined his ancestors.
The passing of the late monarch who was the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia has thrown the Ipokia community into mourning, with chiefs, community leaders while the indigenes both at home and abroad have started paying tribute to the late king.
Palace, in a statement, confirmed the sad news, saying the late monarch joined his ancestors in the United States after a brief illness.
Oba Olaniyan ascended the throne in August 2020 and his five-year reign was defined by efforts to preserve Ipokia’s cultural heritage, expand access to education, and deepen engagement with sons and daughters of the kingdom abroad.
“His reign was marked by his commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Ipokia, promoting education and youth empowerment, encouraging community development, and strengthening ties with Nigerians in the diaspora,” the palace stated.
Under his leadership, Ipokia recorded increased cultural festivals, scholarship drives for indigent students, and community development projects aimed at retaining youth in the border town.
Before his coronation, the late monarch built a successful career in the United States. Palace records note his professional experience spanned criminal justice, aviation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors.
He was also the founder of the Afro-Heritage Broadcasting & Entertainment Awards, AHBEA, an initiative created to celebrate African culture, music, film, and entertainment on a global stage.
The award platform earned him recognition among African creatives in the diaspora and at home.
“His transition is a great loss to Ipokia, Egbado land, and Ogun State,” a senior palace source said. “He brought a global perspective to the throne.”
The palace said funeral arrangements will be announced “in accordance with tradition” after consultations with the Ogun State Government and the Ipokia Kingmakers’ Council.
Oba Olaniyan is survived by his family and members of the Ipokia Royal House.