Mammoth crowd as burial rites begin for Osun monarch
A large crowd gathered in Ikire, headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State, on Monday as the burial rites for the late monarch, Oba Olatunde Falabi, Lambeloye III,
A large crowd gathered in Ikire, headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State, on Monday as the burial rites for the late monarch, Oba Olatunde Falabi, Lambeloye III, commenced.
Residents of the ancient town trooped out in their numbers to pay their last respects to the revered traditional ruler, who died on March 2 at the age of 91.
The death of the monarch was earlier announced by the Chairperson of Irewole Local Government, Dr Esther Okunola, who described the development as a monumental loss to the community.
In her condolence message, Okunola expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the royal father, characterising it as the “fall of a great elephant,” a tribute to his stature and enduring influence in Ikire and beyond.
By 9 a.m. on Monday, major roads within the town had become a beehive of activities as indigenes and well-wishers lined up to catch a final glimpse of the monarch’s remains.
From Naira and Kobo, the main entry point into Ikire, through bustling areas such as Oba Market, Ita-Merin, Sango and Iyana-Egba, to Oja-Ale where the palace is located, a steady of mourners flooded the streets in a solemn display of respect and affection.
The atmosphere was marked by a mix of grief and celebration of a life widely regarded as impactful. Many residents took turns to eulogise the late monarch, describing him as a compassionate and visionary leader whose reign ushered in notable development across the town.
Community leaders, traders, youths and elders alike recounted how the late Oba’s leadership style fostered unity and stability, positioning Ikire as a hub of socio-economic activity within the state.
“He was more than a king; he was a father to all,” one resident said, reflecting a common sentiment among the crowd. “His doors were always open, and he listened to the concerns of his people.”
Security operatives were also seen stationed at strategic points to maintain order as the crowd swelled throughout the day. Traffic movement along key routes was partially affected due to the influx of mourners, with local authorities making efforts to manage the situation.
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The burial rites, which are expected to continue in line with traditional customs, have drawn dignitaries and visitors from neighbouring communities, further underscoring the late monarch’s influence beyond Ikire.
Oba Falabi, who reigned for over three decades, was widely respected for his contributions to the growth and modernisation of the town. Before ascending the throne, he had a distinguished career as a pharmacist, a background many said shaped his approach to leadership and community welfare.
During his reign, Ikire witnessed improvements in infrastructure and increased engagement with both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, initiatives credited to his forward-looking disposition.
As the rites continue, residents say the legacy of the late monarch will endure for generations, even as the town begins the solemn transition toward the selection of a new traditional ruler.
For now, however, Ikire remains united in grief, honouring a monarch whose life and reign left an indelible mark on the community he served for decades.
