The Akire of Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Olatunde Falabi, has died at the age of 91.
Oba Falabi, known formally as Oba Olatunde Falabi Lambeloye III, ascended the throne on 8 May 1993 and reigned for more than three decades. His death marks the end of a reign widely regarded as peaceful and transformative for the ancient town of Ikire.
Born on 20 January 1935 into the Lambeloye ruling house near Ikire, he combined a professional career with religious and traditional leadership. He studied pharmacy at the University of Ife, Ibadan Branch, graduating with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 1967, and became a registered pharmacist the following year.
Before his enthronement, Oba Falabi worked in hospitals and the private sector, including serving as Commercial Manager at Roche Nigeria. He later founded Oba Falabi (Nig.) Ltd and chaired the Oba Falabi Foundation. He was also a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria.
Alongside his royal duties, he was an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), balancing traditional authority with pastoral ministry.
Succession Disputes
His ascension to the throne was followed by prolonged legal disputes. The Aketula ruling house challenged his claim, citing the 1958 chieftaincy declaration. The matter went through the courts, with the Supreme Court affirming the validity of the declaration.
However, the crisis was eventually resolved in 2021 after amendments to the rotational arrangement among ruling houses, a move backed by the Osun State Government.
Development Initiatives
Throughout his reign, Oba Falabi was known for initiatives aimed at improving early education, promoting agriculture, and expanding access to healthcare.
In January 2025, he marked his 90th birthday and 30 years on the throne with a three-day celebration that included interfaith services and a reception attended by dignitaries. A thanksgiving service was held at the RCCG Provincial Headquarters, officiated by Pastor Enoch Adeboye.
To commemorate the milestone, he organised a free medical outreach for elderly residents of Ikire in partnership with the University College Hospital, Ibadan, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, offering consultations and medicines.
Tributes
The monarch was held in high regard by political and religious leaders, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Pastor Adeboye, and Senator Lere Oyewumi, who commended his efforts in fostering peace and development in the community.
Oba Falabi often spoke of his vision to empower the people of Ikire and Nigeria to find fulfilment within their homeland. Over more than 30 years, his leadership was credited with promoting stability, civic engagement, and socio-economic progress in the town.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
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