The Iperu Indigenes Forum has paid glowing tribute to the immediate past Alaperu of Iperu, His Royal Highness, Alayeluwa, Late Oba Adeleke Adelekan IDOWU-BASIBO (Odoru V), FIEX, FICMC, as Friday, 6th February 2026 marks one year since his transition.

In a statement released on Sunday to commemorate the first anniversary of the revered monarch’s passing, the Forum described Kabiyesi as a visionary leader, compassionate father, and an enduring symbol of unity, peace, and purposeful leadership whose reign left indelible marks on Iperu Akesanland and humanity at large.

According to the Forum, in the release jointly signed by Prince Ladi OLABINJO, Convener; High Chief Ifasola Saheed Ojelade OPEODU, the Oluwo of Iperu, Administrator; Otunba Adebayo SALAMI, Administrator, and Temitope OYEKAN, Media Officer; the late Alaperu lived a life defined by discipline, wisdom, and uncommon dedication to the progress and cohesion of his people. His reign was characterised by dignity, foresight, and a balanced commitment to tradition and modern development.

The statement highlighted several landmark achievements recorded during his reign, including the development of the Community Palace, the Kesington Adebutu Civic Centre, the Magistrate Court, the Agro Cargo Airport, the Aviation Housing Estate, the Dam and Irrigation Project, Market redevelopment projects, Skills Acquisition Centre, the Mother and Child Hospital, upgrades of Primary Health Centres, the Engineering Academy, the Nigerian Customs Training School, the Mini Stadium Project, and strategic road projects within Iperu.

The Forum also recalled historic milestones achieved by Iperu indigenes during his reign, notably the emergence of Prince Dapo ABIODUN, CON, as the first indigene of Iperu to be elected Governor of Ogun State, as well as the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat MADEIN, FCCA, FCA, FIASP, as the first female Accountant General of the Federation. The recognition and establishment of additional royal stools within Iperu’s traditional structure were equally noted as part of his enduring legacy.

Describing the late monarch as a peacemaker and stabilising force, the Forum noted that the Ojude Oba festival, which had been dormant for about 30 years, was successfully resuscitated under his leadership. It further stated that the lingering crisis within the Iperu Muslim Community was favourably and amicably resolved through his fatherly intervention and wise counsel.

Beyond physical infrastructure and institutional growth, the Iperu Indigenes Forum emphasised that Kabiyesi’s greatest legacy lies in the unity he fostered, the institutions he strengthened, and the pride he restored in Iperu’s royal and communal identity. He was remembered as a bridge builder, a patient listener, and a consistent promoter of peace and collective progress.

As part of activities marking the one-year remembrance, the family of the late monarch has planned a memorial thanksgiving service and reception to celebrate his impactful life and times.

The Forum concluded by affirming that although the late Alaperu is deeply missed, his memory remains a blessing and his legacy a continuing call to unity, service, and excellence for present and future generations of Iperu people.

*Temitope OYEKAN* 

Media Officer,

Iperu Indigenes Forum

1st February, 2026