Olomu of Omu-Aran dies at 65

The traditional ruler of Omu-Aran in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Charles Oladele Ibitoye, is dead.

The monarch death was confirmed to journalists by the Chief Festus Awoniyi, the Petu of Omu-Aran shortly after the meeting of the Olomu-in-council on Saturday in Omu-Aran.

Ibitoye who was also the Olomu of Omu-Aran was said to have died in the early hours of yesterday after a brief illness.

He was 65 years old.

ROYAL NEWS reports that the rummour of his death which became viral on social media early yesterday had earlier thrown the community into atmosphere of tension and anxiety.

Awoniyi disclosed that there were traditional  rites to be followed before his demise could be made public.

“That is what has been accomplished by the Olomu-in-council which warranted the announcement” he said.

He disclosed that the Elemosho of Omu-Aran, Chef Jimoh Olaiya and his team had been instructed to announce and move round to clear the markets as a mark of tradition.

Awoniyi said a curfew has also been imposed between 9pm and 5am from today.

“We have just finished out meeting at the palace where the news of Olomu’s demise was officially broken.

“There should not be buying and selling for three consecutive market days and a curfew imposed as a mark honour for the late Olomu,” he said.

Oba Ibitoye who hailed from Ikoja compound in the town and from Ijawusi ruling house ascended the throne in January, 1993 after demise of Oba Suleiman Durotoye Abegunde.

A retired civil servant with the State Ministry of Finance the monarch is survived by his wife, Olori Omowumi Ibitoye and four children.

Chief Bisi Adeyemi, President Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA) said the association was in the process of notifying the council Chairman and the State Governor for official announcement.

Meanwhile, Chief Jide Adebayo, a former NAN Executive Director and a community leader, in his condolence, said Ibitoye would be missed for his exemplary leadership style.

“He is kind hearted, industrious, a leader per excellence.