Tributes at late Olukoyi’s funeral ceremony
By Timothy Agbor, Osogbo
The ancient Ikoyi community in Isokan South Local Council Development Area of Osun State on Thursday stood still as dignitaries from all walks of life gathered to bid farewell to the departed paramount ruler of Ikoyi, Oba Yisau Bantale Otunla, Kodaolu 1 who died at the age of 75.
The Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Benedict Gboyega Alabi, the Chairman Isokan South Local Council Development Area, Prince Wasiu Oyetunji Oyelami, the Asiwaju of Ikoyi land, Dr (Alh) Hamid Kolawole Raheem, High Chief Kayode Olaposi who is the Aare Atayese of Ikoyi land and Chairman Burial Committee, the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP Governorship Candidate in the state, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Akogun Lere Oyewumi, Chief Peter Babalola are among notable dignitaries who assembled T the community High School, Ikoyi for the Fidau prayer and funeral ceremony.
While speaking, deputy governor Alabi described the late Olukoyi as a peaceful patriot who committed his life to meritorious service to his people and the state.
Alabi maintained that Oba Otunla was a paramount ruler who was recognised from far and near, lamenting that his loss has left several people in Ikoyi land in a complete sad mode.
According to him, “the late Olukoyi was indeed a colossus who would be missed dearly, and I implore all of us to honour his memory by following the path of peace”.
“You needed to see this man in the traditional rulers’ chambers with other paramount rulers when they wanted to flare, he will always be the one to calm situations down, we will miss him greatly,” the Deputy Governor said.
The Chairman, Isokan South Local Council Development Area, Hon Oyelami in his address also described the late Olukoyi as a noble man of integrity who will be best remembered for always standing on the side of truth and doing what was acknowledged right for his people said, Oba Otunla will be greatly missed.
Hon Oyelami however commiserated with the immediate family of the late monarch and entire people of Ikoyi community, saying ” Almighty Allah will give us the fortitude to bear the loss”.
Speaking on behalf of Olukoyi in Council, the Asalu of Ikoyi land, Chief Habeeb Akinola Olaposi said, the entire Council will definitely miss Oba Otunla for his fatherly roles to them and entire community.
In his words of appreciation, the Asiwaju of Ikoyi, Dr Raheem described the late traditional ruler as a complete peace maker, philanthropist and God fearing who loves all and sundry while on earth.
Asiwaju of Ikoyi however thanked all who have come to commiserate with them.
