Onipokia of Ipokia, Oba Yisa Olaniyan, Joins His Ancestors At 55

Global Mirror News has gathered that the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom in Ogun State, Oba Dr. Yisa ‘Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, has joined his Ancestors at the age of 55 following complications from surgery in Houston, Texas, United States.

The respected monarch reportedly passed away at St. Luke Hospital after undergoing a surgical procedure to address a swallowing-related health condition, bringing an end to a reign widely regarded for promoting cultural heritage, community development and youth empowerment.

Born on September 5, 1970, in Ilashe Quarters, Ipokia, Oba Olaniyan hailed from the Iwaye Dodo Ruling House. He was the son of Prince Hamzat Akanbi Olaniyan and spent several years in the United States before ascending the throne.

Before becoming king, he established the Afro-Heritage Broadcasting and Entertainment Awards (AHBEAwards), a platform dedicated to celebrating Nigerian culture and achievements within the diaspora.

Global Mirror News reports that Oba Olaniyan emerged as the consensus choice among eight Princes contesting for the Royal Stool. He received the staff of office from Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on August 12, 2020, and was officially crowned on September 5, 2020, coinciding with his 50th birthday.

As the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia, he occupied the second-highest traditional position in the Yewa Traditional Council after the Olu of Ilaro, earning respect for his commitment to peace, unity and grassroots development.

During his reign, the monarch championed education, infrastructure development and youth empowerment, while advocating the establishment of higher institutions to improve educational opportunities within Ipokia and surrounding communities.

His efforts in preserving Yoruba culture and promoting traditional values earned him induction into the Nigerian Books of Record Hall of Fame in 2025. That same year, he celebrated his 55th birthday alongside his fifth coronation anniversary in an event attended by prominent traditional rulers, government officials and cultural stakeholders.

His last known public appearance was in April 2026 at a reception held in Houston in honour of Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo.

Oba Olaniyan is survived by his wife, Olori Folasade, and members of the royal family.

His death has thrown the Ipokia Kingdom and the entire Yewa region into mourning, with tributes expected from traditional institutions, government officials and residents who described him as a visionary monarch who successfully blended tradition with modern leadership.

Following his passing, the royal stool of the Onipokia has become vacant. The Iwaye Dodo Ruling House is expected to commence the process of producing a successor in accordance with the kingdom’s traditional succession procedures.