Coincidence or Correlation? October 25, 1955, began like any other day in the Royal Household of Omo Oba Samuel Adeniran Aromolaran, fondly known as "Owa e n'Ishokun, Orisa e l'Aafin" was the Awe Owa being the eldest son of Oba Oduyomade Aromolaran I.
That day, Omo Oba Adeniran returned from a meeting of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity. After enjoying a hearty serving of pounded yam and efo riro, he stepped out onto the balcony of his palatial Isokun mansion. Gazing at the sky, he uttered words that would later carry profound meaning:
“A great man is about to exit this mother earth.”
To his family, it was simply a comment about the unusual weather — a heavy downpour with thunder, sunlight breaking through, and a rainbow arched across the sky, all occurring at once.
In Yoruba mythology, such a rare blend of weather elements signifies the birth of a tiger cub — a symbol of greatness. Yet, in truth, it was the Universe signaling an exchange: the departure of one giant soul and the arrival of another.
That day, my maternal grandfather, Omo Oba Samuel Adeniran Aromolaran — described by J.D.Y. Peel in Ijesa and Nigerians as “the giant of the 1920s” and “the biggest trader in Ijesaland in the 1930’s” — took his final bow from this world at the age of 65.
On that same day, Olayinka Fasuyi was born.
A Giant is Born
Olayinka came into this world destined for greatness. He has always carried himself with dignity, dressing with elegance reminiscent of the man whose spirit seems to have found expression in him. Ojo gbogbo bi odun — every day for him is a celebration.
Was it mere coincidence that he was later installed as the Asiwaju of Ijesaland by the late Oba (Dr) Adekunle Aromolaran, the immediate past Owa Obokun Adimula and younger brother to my grandfather? I believe it was destiny — a purpose now fully justified by his life’s work.
A Leader with Purpose.
Chief Olayinka Fasuyi has proven to be a unifier, rallying Ijesaland towards purposeful and progressive goals. His patriotism is passionate, his love for Ijesaland undiluted. His leadership embodies capability, integrity, and vision.
Born to lead, he has done so with excellence, earning the admiration of Ijesa both at home and across the diaspora. My grandfather, Omo Oba Samuel Adeniran Aromolaran, would have been proud of him. Oba (Dr) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II was certainly proud of him.
Celebrating 70 Years of Impact.
As you, Chief Olayinka Fasuyi, celebrate your 70th birthday, the Royal House of Bepo – Aromolaran joins in rejoicing with you. We pray for continued strength and wisdom for you to keep serving Ijesaland with the same passion and dedication that have defined your journey.
We thank you.
We appreciate you.
Congratulations!
Signed:
YeyeOriade Modupe Ajanaku
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