By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
IPOKIA, OGUN STATE — September 6, 2025:
As His Royal Majesty, Oba Yisa ‘Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan (JP), Ariwigbade Oshigin II, the Onipokia of Ipokia, marked another year of impactful leadership Yesterday, Friday, 5 September, 2025, a notable chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Abioro Damilare Athande, has extended warm felicitations to the monarch, lauding his immense contributions to the cultural, social, and economic growth of Ipokia Kingdom and Ogun State at large.
Abioro, a former senatorial aspirant for Ogun West Senatorial District and Chief Executive Officer of Dardolips Information Global Technology — a public relations firm — described the first-class traditional ruler as “a rare gem whose reign continues to bring honour, unity, and progress to the Ipokia people.”
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“Kabiyesi Oba Yisa Olaniyan is more than a royal father — a builder of dreams, a promoter of heritage, and a symbol of modern traditional leadership. His reign has witnessed tremendous cultural revival and engagement, both at home and in the diaspora,” Abioro said in his birthday message.
The colourful celebration of the monarch’s birthday drew prominent dignitaries and traditional leaders across Nigeria. Among them were the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Naimot Salako Oyedele, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Olatokunbo Joseph Talabi, the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade.
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Also in attendance were Senator Adeola Solomon Yayi, represented by Hon. Jimoh Ojugbele; House of Representatives Member representing Ipokia Constituency, Hon. Akinlade Abiodun Isiaq; Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Chairman, Hon. Adewale Wasiu; and the host chairman, Hon. Avoseh Johnson of Ipokia Local Government.
To crown the festivity, Fuji maestro King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) thrilled the gathering with electrifying performances that highlighted the cultural richness of the occasion.
Oba Yisa Olaniyan, who is the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, ascended the throne following the demise of the late Oba Raufu Adeole, the 45th Onipokia. Since his coronation, he has carved a unique legacy in both royal and entrepreneurial spheres.
In addition to his traditional duties, the monarch is widely recognised for his influence in the entertainment industry. He is the founder and chairman of the Afro-Heritage Entertainment Company, a United States-based platform that celebrates African arts, culture, and excellence globally. His work in this space earned him the prestigious title of “Most Influential King of the Year,” according to reports by Kabiyesitv, a media outfit that chronicles royal and cultural affairs.
Ipokia, the seat of his throne and the administrative capital of Ipokia Local Government Area in Ogun State, is one of the state’s ancient Yoruba towns renowned for its vibrant traditions and historical relevance. The town is also famous for hosting Opo Day, an annual cultural celebration that honours the community’s ancestral connection with Ajase-Ipo in Kwara State.
Abioro further praised the monarch for blending tradition with innovation in his leadership style.
“Kabiyesi has not only preserved the customs of our forefathers but has also adapted them to meet the modern realities of governance and development. His involvement in global platforms shows how far Ipokia has come under his watch,” he added.
Describing Oba Olaniyan as “a unifier and peacemaker,” Abioro emphasised the monarch’s role in fostering community development through local empowerment initiatives, cultural exchange programs, and youth engagement.
“On this special day, I join the sons and daughters of Ipokia, both at home and abroad, to wish His Royal Majesty a long life, sound health, and continued wisdom to guide our land,” Abioro reiterated.
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As the people of Ipokia celebrate their revered monarch, many see this day not just as a birthday, but as a moment of gratitude for a royal father whose legacy continues to inspire pride, progress, and purpose.
