Osun monarch Oba Ademola Akinyemi dies at 85

Oba Enoch Ademola Akinyemi, the Owa-Ooye of Imesi-Ile in Osun State, died on Friday, October 16, 2026, aged 85, after 21 years on the throne. His death was announced by Chief Tunde Aluko on behalf of the royal council and community, which praised his contributions to peace, unity and development. The Imesi-Ile Progressive Association also paid tribute to his development initiatives and efforts to preserve local heritage, including the campaign for international recognition of the Kiriji War celebration. The association suspended major public events until further notice, while traditional rites and funeral arrangements will be announced later.