- Safiu Kehinde
Former Osun state governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has paid heartfelt tribute to late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Gabriel Aromolaran.
In the wake of the prominent Osun monarch’s demise, Aregbesola rendered eulogies to the late king in a statement issued in Friday.
Aregbesola decried the end of an unforgettable era, as he described the late king as a tree that could make a forest.
The former governor hailed Aromolaran’s intellectual prowess while recounting late monarch’s support during his administration.
“Oba Aromolaran was the quintessential monarch – regal, majestic, intellectually sound, wise, discerning and decisive. He had a compelling personality and personified kingship.
“With his sterling education and sagacity, he uplifted the throne and the institution of his fathers. He kept his head high even in an era of the decline of traditional rulership.
“He was my father before, during and after my two term governorship in the state. He was also my life coach and advisor in practically every area of life and governance.
“He was a tree that could make a forest. A giant among men. An inimitable ruler with a special appeal. “Osupa ileki, a mo roro la’gbo.” Aregbesola wrote.
The ex- governor who also doubled as former Minister of Interior, heaped praises of the late monarch whom he described as a lion.
“His ascension to the throne was described as the coming of the lion. He was and lived like a lion, dominated his territory and was feared and respected beyond. But the lion is gone!
“My heartfelt condolences go to the Osun State Government, the good people of Ijesaland, his chiefs and his immediate and extended family. May God comfort and grant them his peace. May he give them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“May God repose his soul and grant him unending joy in the next estate. Aamin!
Ajanaku sun bi oke. Erin wo! Erin subu, erin ko le dide!!” He added