Five years after the demise of Oba Samuel Durodola Afolabi II, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Prince Ashiru Oyebisi Olalere, as the new Onilua of Ilua, in the Kajola Local Government Area of the State.
The approval according to reports, was conveyed in an official letter from the Oyo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Secretariat, Ibadan, with reference number CB.141/26A Vol. III/99, dated 31st December, 2025, and signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, A.M. Olajire, thereby authenticated the appointment.
According to the letter, the Ministry stated that it was directed to inform Prince Ashiru Oyebisi Olalere “with pleasure” that the Governor had graciously approved his appointment as the new Onilua of Ilua in Kajola Local Government Area, with effect from 20th October, 2023.
The government further disclosed that the appointment would soon be published in the Official Gazette of the Oyo State Government, in line with established statutory procedures governing traditional institutions in the state.
While congratulating the new monarch, the Ministry also expressed optimism that his reign would usher in an era of peace, progress, and socio-economic development for Ilua town and Kajola Local Government as a whole.
“May your reign as the new Onilua of Ilua be synonymous with peace, progress and socio-economic growth in Kajola Local Government Area,” the letter read, while wishing the monarch a successful and impactful reign.
Prince Olalere’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the history of the town, as expectations remain high among indigenes and stakeholders that his enthronement will further strengthen unity, cultural heritage, and grassroots’ development within the community.
The last occupant of the throne, Oba Samuel Afolabi, died at the age of 141 after ruling for 39 years.
The monarch, who was believed to be the oldest in south-western Nigeria, joined his ancestors on Saturday, May 23rd, 2020, following age-related illness.
Oba Afolabi, born in 1879 during the reign of Oba Adeyemi 1 of Alowolodu dynasty, who was the last independent Alaafin to rule the Oyo Empire, became Onilua of Ilualand at the age of 102 years, after the demise of Oba Majaro in 1981 through unanimous consent of the kingmakers.
