Mr Samuel Afolabi, a prominent stakeholder in Ondo State’s Idanre Kingdom, has described the emergence of Prince Mayowa Aroloye as the Owa-elect as a remarkable milestone in the ancient kingdom’s history.
Afolabi, who is the General Secretary of the Prince Mayowa Toluade Aroloye (PMA) Obaship Movement, shared these reflections in a memoir made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja.
Afolabi said that the election Aroloye as the new Owa of Idanre Kingdom during the keenly contested selection process on Nov. 3, represented an extraordinary moment in the traditional history of the land.
He noted that the outcome brought a rigorous and significant succession process to a peaceful close while opening a fresh chapter for the revered traditional institution.
According to Afolabi, Aroloye’s ascension to the throne carried deep historical weight because it is directly tied to the noble heritage and enduring legacy of his late father, Oba Fredrick Aroloye.
“He is a direct biological son of the late Aroloye, the immediate past paramount ruler of Idanre Kingdom.
“His father was one of the most historically significant monarchs in the recent traditional history of Idanre Kingdom, having ascended the throne in 1976 and reigned for 48 remarkable years until his demise on July 30, 2024.’’
Afolabi highlighted a journey defined by both global exposure and a Aroloye’s deep commitment to his roots.
“Born in Odode-Idanre, Aroloye pursued his education and built an impressive career spanning professional engagements, business investments, and humanitarian initiatives across both Nigeria and the United Kingdom.’’
He said that in spite of his international exposure and achievements abroad, Aroloye never lost sight of his heritage.
“Following the passing of his father in July 2024, he returned to his ancestral homeland to answer the call of duty and participate in the traditional succession process.
“His life reflects the journey of a prince who, having experienced different dimensions of life, returned to his ancestral homeland to participate in the succession process following the demise of his illustrious father.’’
He said that the Owa-elect’s background adequately equipped him to bridge the gap between traditional customs and modern governance.
According to the general-secretary, Aroloye’s emergence goes far beyond a personal victory or family triumph.
Instead, he characterised it as a pivotal moment in the ongoing story of Idanreland, serving to strengthen its royal institution and preserve its rich historical identity for future generations.
Afolabi expressed confidence that the Owa-elect would uphold the dignity of the Aroloye lineage as Idanre Kingdom prepared for the formal coronation and transition of power.
