Senator Fadahunsi Laments Passing of Osun's Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile

Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents the Osun East Senatorial District, has expressed profound sorrow following the demise of Oba Enoch Ademola Akinyemi, the Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile. Earlier reports from PUNCH Online confirmed that the revered monarch passed away at the age of 85, having reigned for 21 years.

The announcement of Oba Akinyemi’s death was made public on Friday through a statement issued by High Chief Tunde Aluko, the Obaala of Imesi-Ile and Chairman of the Owa-Ooye-in-Council. Chief Aluko conveyed the news on behalf of the royal council and the entire community.

Senator Fadahunsi, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Industries, eulogized the late traditional ruler as an eminent scholar and a charismatic leader. He emphasized that the monarch's passing has created an irreplaceable void not only in Ijesa land and Osun State but across Nigeria as a whole. The senator’s comments were contained in a statement signed by Omole Olusegun, his Head of Media and Public Enlightenment, and shared with PUNCH Online on Saturday.

According to Senator Fadahunsi, Oba Akinyemi’s more than two-decade reign was marked by significant contributions to the development of his domain and beyond. He further described the departed monarch as a man of intellect, a jovial personality, and a friend to all, stressing that his death represents a monumental loss to the people.

“It is a big loss to us in Ijesha land, the state, and the nation,” Fadahunsi stated. He added, “We can only console the family and the industrious people he led, and mourn him gracefully because he came, he saw, and he conquered.” The senator concluded by offering prayers for strength and comfort for the monarch’s immediate family, the Imesi-Ile community, the Ijesa people, the Osun State Government, and all others grieving his passing.