The ancient Ipokia Kingdom in Ogun State has been thrown into mourning following the passing of the Onipokia of Ipokia, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Yisa ‘Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan (Orijajoogun I), who died at the age of 55 in Houston, Texas, United States, after a brief illness.
According to available information, the revered monarch passed away at St. Luke Hospital following complications from surgery for a swallowing-related medical condition.
Born on September 5, 1970, in Ilashe Quarters, Ipokia, Oba Olaniyan hailed from the Iwaye Dodo Ruling House and was the son of Prince Hamzat Akanbi Olaniyan. Before ascending the throne, he lived in the United States, where he established the Afro-Heritage Broadcasting and Entertainment Awards (AHBEAwards), a platform dedicated to promoting Nigerian culture and excellence in the diaspora.
Oba Olaniyan was unanimously selected from among eight princes and officially received the staff of office from Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on August 12, 2020. He was crowned on September 5, 2020, coinciding with his 50th birthday, becoming the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia and the second-highest traditional ruler in the Yewa Traditional Council after the Olu of Ilaro.
Throughout his reign, the monarch championed community development, education, youth empowerment, and infrastructural growth. He was widely admired for his commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and promoting the rich heritage of Ipokia Kingdom. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was inducted into the Nigerian Books of Record Hall of Fame in 2025.
In September 2025, Oba Olaniyan celebrated his fifth coronation anniversary and 55th birthday in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, cultural icons, and members of the Nigerian diaspora.
His last public appearance was in April 2026 during a reception in Houston honoring Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo.
Oba Olaniyan is survived by his wife, Olori Folasade, family members, and the people of Ipokia Kingdom, who remember him as a visionary monarch who successfully blended tradition with modern leadership.
His passing leaves the revered Onipokia stool vacant. The Iwaye Dodo Ruling House is expected to begin the traditional process of selecting a successor, a development that will attract significant attention across Ipokia, Yewaland, and Ogun State.
As tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria and the diaspora, many have described the late monarch as a distinguished custodian of culture, a bridge-builder, and a passionate advocate for the progress of his people.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
