Today marks one year since the departure of our beloved royal father, Oba Olasunkanmi Ismaila Abioye Opeola. While a year has passed, the memories of your leadership, wisdom, courage, discipline and fatherly guidance remain fresh in our hearts. Your absence has created a void that can never truly be filled, yet Almighty God has continued to sustain us, protect us, and guide the kingdom through challenging times.
This past year has taught us the value of your sacrifices and the depth of your commitment to the growth and unity of Iroko Kingdom. Many of the visions and plans you carefully nurtured are gradually manifesting, and today we can proudly say that Iroko continues to wax stronger despite numerous challenges.
As I reflect on your life and legacy, these are my heartfelt words:
“A year without our royal father has been a great loss. Yet, we remain grateful to Almighty God for preserving us and the kingdom you loved so dearly. Today, many of the plans that were carefully laid during your lifetime are manifesting for the progress of Iroko.
Though certain things are being done to the royal stool today that many could neither contemplate nor attempt during your lifetime, we draw strength from the values of courage, dignity, and unity which you instilled in us. If indeed the departed watch over those they leave behind, we pray that you do not allow us to be intimidated, divided, or conquered by either internal or external forces.
We are also grateful that the Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Akinwole Akinyele, continues to uphold the principles of neutrality, fairness, protection and justice in his contributions to the affairs of the kingdom, thereby preserving and respecting the legacy you stood for throughout your reign.
If the departed can look back upon the affairs of the living, continue to be our solicitor before the Most High God and the unseen spirits of our ancestors. Continue to intercede for peace, unity, development, and progress in our land. I am glad to say that Iroko is waxing stronger, but we miss you dearly. Your place can never be taken. You remain irreplaceable, dear father. Until we meet again, know that you are loved, remembered, honoured, and deeply missed.”
As we commemorate this first anniversary of your transition, we pray that your soul continues to rest in perfect peace. May your legacy continue to inspire generations yet unborn, and may the kingdom you served with distinction continue to flourish.
Forever in Our Hearts.
Forever on Our Minds.
Forever Our Royal Father.
Courtesy:
Amb. Chief Moshood Ismail Abioye
Otunba Oniroko of Iroko Kingdom
