A new chapter has begun in the royal lineage of Isinkan in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State with the emergence of 89-year-old Prince Sunday Omojowo Ariyo as the Olori Omowa of Iralepo Isinkan.
His emergence followed the passing of the immediate past Olori Omowa, Prince Durojaye Ariyo, who died at the remarkable age of 110.
In line with the age-long tradition of the Iralepo Isinkan dynasty, the oldest member of the royal family automatically assumes the revered position of Olori Omowa, the head of princes and princesses of the kingdom.
Also announced was the emergence of 80-year-old Prince Bamidele Ojo Adefila as the Deputy Olori Omowa.
The duo were formally presented to the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Oluwagbemiga Olofin-Adimula, at an extraordinary meeting of Omowas held at his palace in Ita-Owa, Isinkan.
The palace courtyard wore a solemn yet dignified look as princes and princesses, adorned in traditional attires, gathered to witness the historic moment.
The air was filled with a blend of nostalgia for the departed leader and hope for renewed unity under the new leadership.
Olus, family elders and well-wishers exchanged pleasantries in hushed tones, reflecting both reverence and anticipation.
In his address, the Iralepo congratulated Prince Ariyo and Prince Adefila, describing their emergence as divinely ordained and in accordance with cherished customs.
“Our tradition is clear and sacred. Leadership among the Omowas is not contested but guided by seniority and honour. Today, we uphold the wisdom of our forebears,” the monarch said.
Oba Olofin-Adimula called for peace, unity and mutual respect among members of the royal family, stressing that the strength of Isinkan lies in the harmony of its princes and princesses.
“This is not a time for division. It is a time to close ranks. The Olori Omowa is a father to all princes and princesses. I expect cooperation, humility and loyalty to the throne. Let us preserve our heritage and protect the dignity of our dynasty,” he added.
The monarch further urged the new leaders to serve with fairness and transparency, noting that the Omowas play a crucial advisory and stabilizing role within the kingdom.
Responding, the new Olori Omowa, Prince Sunday Omojowo Ariyo, expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the monarch and members of the royal family for their support.
“At 89, I see this responsibility as a call to service, not a title for prestige. I will strive to be a unifying father to all. Our family has a proud history, and we must not allow misunderstandings to weaken us,” he said.
He paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Prince Durojaye Ariyo, describing him as a symbol of wisdom and longevity whose footsteps would be difficult to fill.
“We shall build on the foundation he laid. My doors will remain open to every prince and princess. Together, we will uphold the values of respect, discipline and loyalty to Kabiyesi,” he assured.
Deputy Olori Omowa, Prince Bamidele Ojo Adefila, also pledged unwavering support to the new leader and commitment to strengthening unity within the dynasty.
The meeting prayed for the continued peace and progress of Isinkan Kingdom, as traditional blessings were offered for the longevity and successful reign of the new Olori Omowa.
For the Iralepo Isinkan dynasty, the transition marks not just a change in leadership, but a reaffirmation of tradition, a reminder that in Isinkan, order, respect for age, and reverence for custom remain the pillars of royal continuity.
