Oba Olatunde Falabi death mourned in Ikire, Osun State; monarch revered for leadership, cultural preservation, and community progress over 30 years

The Akire of Ikire, Oba Olatunde Falabi, has passed away at the age of 91, the Chairperson of Irewole Local Government, Dr Esther Okunola, announced on Monday. Sources close to the palace reported that Oba Falabi died following a brief illness over the weekend.

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In her condolence message, Dr Okunola described the monarch’s death as the “fall of a great elephant,” noting that Ikire and the entire Irewole Local Government had lost a royal father whose wisdom, courage and guidance were pillars of unity and progress.

“His leadership strengthened traditional institutions and fostered harmony among his people. Indeed, when a mighty elephant falls, the forest trembles.

Kabiyesi lived a life of honour and service. His legacy will continue to inspire generations,” she added, extending condolences to the royal family, the Akire Traditional Council, and the people of Ikire.

Oba Falabi, a trained pharmacist, was installed as the Akire of Ikire in May 1993 and reigned for more than three decades.

His tenure was marked by peace, cultural preservation, and economic and political growth, including the establishment of the College of Humanities of Osun State University in Ikire and the rise of Benedict Alabi, a native of the town, to the position of Deputy Governor of Osun State.

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The monarch’s passing leaves a void in Ikire’s traditional leadership, and community leaders have called for prayers for the repose of his soul and the continued guidance of his legacy.