The body of His Royal Majesty, Oba Olatunde Afolabi lambeloye III, the Alakire of Ikire, Ikire, has been laid to rest.

 

The body of His Royal Majesty, Oba Olatunde Afolabi Olambeloye III, the Alakire of Ikire, Ikire, has been laid to rest.

Mammoth Crowd Gathers for Burial of Osun Monarch

Ikire, the headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area in Osun State, came alive on Monday as residents and well-wishers gathered to pay their final respects to the late Oba Olatunde Falabi, Lambeloye III.

The revered monarch, who passed away on March 2 at the age of 91, drew a large crowd to the town, underscoring his enduring influence in Ikire and beyond.

Dr Esther Okunola, Chairperson of Irewole Local Government, had earlier announced the monarch’s death, describing it as a monumental loss. In her condolence message, she likened his passing to the “fall of a great elephant,” a tribute to his stature and leadership.

By 9 a.m., major roads leading into the town—from Naira and Kobo, through Oba Market, Ita-Merin, Sango, Iyana-Egba, to Oja-Ale, the site of the palace—were bustling with mourners. Residents lined the streets in solemn tribute, eager to catch a final glimpse of the late monarch’s remains.

The atmosphere blended grief with celebration, as many recalled Oba Falabi’s compassionate and visionary leadership. Community leaders, traders, youths, and elders all testified to his role in fostering unity and socio-economic growth in Ikire.

“He was more than a king; he was a father to all,” one resident reflected. “His doors were always open, and he listened to the concerns of his people.”

Security personnel were deployed at key points to maintain order, and traffic along major routes was partially disrupted due to the influx of mourners.

The burial rites, in accordance with traditional customs, are expected to continue over the coming days. Dignitaries from neighbouring communities have also arrived, highlighting the late monarch’s far-reaching influence.

Oba Falabi, who reigned for over three decades, was respected for his contributions to modernising Ikire. Before ascending the throne, he had a distinguished career as a pharmacist—a background that informed his commitment to community welfare and progressive governance. Under his leadership, the town saw improvements in infrastructure and stronger engagement with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.

As the rites progress, residents affirm that his legacy will endure, even as Ikire begins the solemn process of selecting a new traditional ruler. For now, the town remains united in grief, honouring a monarch whose decades-long reign left an indelible mark on the community.