ALAPERU’S DEMISE: A STARK REMINDER OF THE FRAGILITY OF LIFE – OJUDE OBA IPERU 2025 PLANNING COMMITTEE
By: Tope Oyekan
Otunba Denny Ibrahim Olusegun OLADIPUPO, Chairman, Ojude Oba Iperu 2025 Planning Committee with a profound sorrow and a heavy heart, and on behalf of the Ebi of Idena, His Royal Highness, Alayeluwa Oba Lukman Oluwadamilare Adebambo SALAMI (Sebu II), all Royal Fathers in Iperu, and entire members of the Ojude Oba Iperu 2025 Planning Committee, acknowledges the passing of our beloved Alaperu of Iperu, His Royal Highness, Alayeluwa Oba Adeleke Adelekan IDOWU-BASIBO (Odoru Apekunjoye V), FIEX, FICMC, whose demise has left an irreparable void in our community, particularly as we had just commenced planning for the 2025 Ojude Oba celebration via the inaugural meeting held on Sunday, 2nd February, 2025.
We extend our deepest condolences to his immediate and ancestral family, and the entire Iperu Akesanland, during this difficult moment.
His sudden and unexpected passing has cast a pall of gloom over our community. His reign was marked by wisdom, compassion, and a profound dedication to the cultural heritage of Iperu. His pivotal role in the revival of the Ojude Oba festival after a 30-year hiatus cannot be overstated. His relentless efforts, resolute
commitment, and visionary leadership were instrumental in bringing back this cherished tradition, uniting our people in a joyous celebration of our shared history and identity. The success of the 2024 Ojude Oba stands as a testament to his dedication and foresight.
Beyond his contributions to the Ojude Oba, the Alaperu’s legacy extends to his remarkable peacemaking efforts within the Iperu Muslim community. His ability to bridge divides and foster unity and peaceful coexistence amongst warring factions speaks volumes about his character and his commitment to harmony. He was a true leader, a peacemaker, and a champion of unity.
The timing of his passing, just as the 2025 Ojude Oba Planning Committee held its inaugural meeting, is particularly poignant. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Little did we know that death would soon take our beloved King away! We are however grateful for the time we had with him and will forever remember his contributions to our community.
We find solace in the knowledge that the Alaperu has gone to be with his ancestors and he is resting in the loving embrace of the Almighty God, the All-Knowing, the All-Powerful, who gives and takes away as He wills. May God grant his family, friends, and the entire Iperu Akesanland the strength and comfort to bear this immense loss. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we pray that the Ojude Oba celebration will continue to thrive and grow, serving as a lasting tribute to his leadership and dedication to our community.
