- The Onise of Ise-Land, Oba Ganiyu Adebowale Adegbesan, has passed away.
- Lekki LCDA Chairman, Engr. Rasaki Kasali, confirmed the monarch’s transition.
- The late ruler was celebrated for fostering peace and unity in his domain.
The traditional institution in Lagos State has recorded a significant loss as the Onise of Ise-Land, His Royal Majesty Oba Ganiyu Adebowale Adegbesan, has transitioned to join his ancestors.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the news of the monarch’s passing was officially confirmed late Saturday night, sending a wave of solemnity through the Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and the broader Epe divisional community.
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The announcement was made via a heartfelt tribute from the Executive Chairman of Lekki LCDA, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali (RBK), who characterized the late Oba as a cornerstone of stability and a dedicated advocate for the welfare of his people.
In a signed statement, Engr. Kasali expressed the profound sorrow felt by the local administration and the residents of the coastal community.
The Chairman noted that the late Oba Adegbesan was not merely a traditional figurehead but a visionary leader whose reign was defined by an unwavering commitment to the principles of unity and communal progress.
According to the council boss, the loss is felt acutely by the entire Lekki LCDA family, as the monarch served as a constant source of wisdom and cultural guidance for the local government’s initiatives.
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I inform the public of the passing of His Majesty, the Kabiesi Onise of Ise-Land, His Royal Majesty Oba Ganiyu Adebowale Adegbesan, who left us tonight,” the Chairman’s statement read.
He emphasized that the late monarch’s life was a testament to the importance of traditional leadership in maintaining social harmony.
Throughout his reign, the Onise was known for his ability to resolve internal disputes with a balance of justice and mercy, ensuring that Ise-Land remained a peaceful enclave within the rapidly developing Lekki corridor.
The transition of the Onise marks the end of an era for the Ise-Land community. Under his watch, the area saw various degrees of social integration and traditional preservation, even as the surrounding environment underwent modernization.
His palace was frequently a hub for stakeholders seeking counsel on matters ranging from land administration to the security of lives and property. Engr. Kasali noted that the Oba’s legacy would continue to inspire the next generation of leaders in the LCDA, particularly those who value the intersection of modern governance and ancient heritage.
As news of the transition spread, residents and community leaders have begun to offer their condolences.
Many described the late monarch as an accessible ruler who prioritized the needs of the vulnerable within his domain.
His presence at public functions was often marked by an aura of dignity and a profound sense of duty toward the preservation of Yoruba customs and values.
The Chairman’s tribute further prayed for the comfort of the bereaved, asking that the Almighty God grants His Majesty eternal rest and gives comfort and strength to his loved ones and the entire community.
The LCDA administration has indicated that it will stand in solidarity with the royal family and the council of traditional chiefs during this difficult period of transition.
While the traditional rites associated with the passing of a Yoruba king are expected to be performed in accordance with the customs of Ise-Land, the public has been told to expect further communications regarding the formal burial ceremonies.
“Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated as they are finalised,” the Chairman concluded.
The departure of Oba Adegbesan leaves a significant void in the Council of Obas in Lagos State.
His colleagues and the political class often respected him for his moderate views and his ability to mobilize his subjects for state and local developmental projects.
As the community prepares for the traditional “ipebi” and the eventual selection of a successor, the immediate focus remains on honoring the life of a man who spent his years ensuring that the peace and progress he preached were felt by every household in Ise-Land.
