Died 2nd August, 2017
My Encounter with Onroko Ijaola…
Chief Onroko Ijaola worked with the Nigeria Railways from 1953 at Ebute Metta, Lagos State, and retired as a Deputy Secretary on October 2, 1978. I often told him, “You’re one of the remaining brigade of truth, trusted, upright, and forthright – a library of Owu history and a rare breed of incorruptible elders.”
Onroko Ijaola represented the Lagos North East Constituency at the National Assembly from 1979-83 under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). He was a close associate of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Lateef Jakande. I discovered his philosophies and straightforwardness many years ago in the Owu Community of Abeokuta. Though he held tough stances, he was a respected figure.
Born on September 28, 1933, at Kano, Nigeria, Onroko claimed to have been born at 2:10 am. His father, a Senior Station Master at Ido, Lagos State, played a significant role in shaping his lineage and traditional title. Onroko was installed as the 8th Olu Aroko on September 30, 2000, and tenaciously protected the traditional stool until his passing.
One of his notable proverbs, “Olotito ki leni sugbon won ki o ku si apo ika,” translates to “The truth will always prevail no matter the circumstances.” I personally learned a lot from Onroko tiwa, a family man with many children. Adieu Onroko tiwa! Goodnight…
Emi ni tiyin nitoto,
Oloye Abiodun Lasile
Orunto Baalufe Owu Kingdom Abeokuta.
