Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Oniroko of Iroko, Oba Olasunkanmi Opeola.
The respected monarch passed away at the age of 64 in the early hours of Friday after a period of illness. Though he had been hospitalized, he reportedly asked to return to his palace on Thursday, where he died peacefully the following day.
Born on March 9, 1961, Oba Opeola ascended the throne on February 4, 2011, and ruled Iroko town for 14 years.
In a statement issued by his media office in Ibadan on Saturday, Senator Alli described the late king as a unifier and peace ambassador whose death is a major loss to Oyo State and beyond.
“His passing marks the end of an era defined by visionary leadership, cultural integrity, and dedicated service to his people,” the senator, who also holds the chieftaincy title of Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, stated.
He praised the monarch’s role in the development of Iroko and his notable contributions to Ibadanland and various socio-cultural bodies.
“Oba Opeola’s legacy is filled with compassion, foresight, and an enduring commitment to his community’s advancement,” Alli added.
Offering condolences to the royal family, traditional chiefs, and the people of Iroko, Senator Alli said, “On behalf of my family and myself, I extend our deepest sympathies to all those grieving this irreplaceable loss.”
He prayed for peace for the monarch’s soul and strength for the bereaved, saying, “May the Almighty forgive his shortcomings, grant him eternal rest, and comfort all who mourn him.”
Oba Opeola was among 21 traditional rulers elevated to the status of beaded crown monarchs by the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi—a move aimed at reforming the traditional chieftaincy system in Oyo State.
