Following the death of the Obagberume of Igbodigo, Oba John Ebunola Aiyeku, plans are underway for his funeral next week. This was confirmed in a statement by Prince Ayodeji Aiyeku. The four-day farewell events will begin on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
The late monarch, who passed away at the age of 94, will be honored with various activities, culminating in a grand reception on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Aiyeka/Igbodigo/Oke-Igbala High School, Igbodigo.
According to Aiyeku, a group of traditional rulers from Ikaleland will visit the Obagberume’s palace on February 26 between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon. A cultural dance will follow at 3:00 p.m., and a Biripo night will be held from 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
On Thursday, February 27, there will be a public lecture at the Igbodigo Civic Centre at 4:00 p.m., while an interdenominational service will take place at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28.
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Oba John Ebunola Aiyeku, Akinyomi I, JP, the Obagberume of Igbodigo, was born on January 2, 1931, to High Chief Matthew Ikuemonisan Aiyeku and the late Mrs. Emmah Amusitan Aiyeku. He was crowned Obagberume of Igbodigo on June 21, 1997, from the Lumoekun Ruling House of Igbodigo.
Oba Aiyeku began his education at St. John’s R.C.M. School, Okitipupa, in 1945, and later attended St. Paul’s Anglican School, Okitipupa, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1953. He also attended Okitipupa Divisional Teachers’ Training College and Muslim Teachers’ Training College, Oru–Ijebu, where he earned his Teacher’s Grade III and II Certificates. In 1982, he obtained higher certification in education from the University of Ibadan.
Oba Aiyeku was highly respected for his fair rule, courage, and commitment to the welfare and development of Igbodigo. Under his leadership, Igbodigo saw significant progress, particularly in education and infrastructure.
He played a key role in the founding of Ayeka/Igbodigo/Oke-Igbala High School in 1979 and was a member of the Education District Authority. A dedicated teacher, he served in various riverine communities before retiring in 1986 as Headmaster of St. Paul’s Anglican School, Okitipupa.
In the social sphere, Oba Aiyeku was a founding member and the first General Secretary of the Igbodigo Progressive Union and a founding member of the Okitipupa Social Brothers’ Club. He also served as the president of the Egudu Progressive Club 82 until his ascension to the throne.
Oba Aiyeku was politically active, serving as a councillor in Ikale Local Government from 1988 to 1989 and as Supervisory Councillor for Education. During his time as councillor, he helped develop essential amenities such as markets and culverts in his constituency.
Religiously, Oba Aiyeku was a devoted Christian, a member of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and initiated reforms in the cultural practices of Igbodigo. He promoted religious harmony and peace and was an active member of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship.
