“Let us honour today’s Olofa briefly…” Hmmm! Those words come from one of the late Alhaji Odolaye Aremu’s timeless albums, ‘Olowe M’owe,’ which was released in 1977 (or thereabouts) to celebrate Oba Ariwajoye II.
Today, both Olofa Ariwajoye II and Alhaji Odolaye have joined their ancestors, leaving a legacy that lives on in our hearts. The scenario encapsulated the essence of life with the saying, Ìgbà kan ń lọ, ìgbà kan ń bo, ẹni kan ó lo ilé ayé—One era passes, another begins, and every soul must return home. I will revisit part of this album later, as it holds treasures of memory and reflection.
The Yoruba adage, “Oba mewa, Igba mewa”—ten kings, ten different epochs—reminds us that each era of leadership leaves its unique imprint on history, shaping the destiny of its people. The throne of Offa has been graced by kings of profound wisdom, strength, and vision.
Among them, Oba Mustafa Olawoore Olanipekun Ariwajoye II, the 23rd Olofa of Offa (1970–2010), stands as a monumental figure in the town’s narrative.
His reign was characterized by transformation, resilience, and progress, skillfully bridging the gap between tradition and modernity in a manner that continues to define Offa today.
Before his ascension, Offa’s leadership was shaped by two rulers who left lasting legacies. Oba Wuraola Isioye (1937–1959) was a king of remarkable foresight, even without Western education. He understood the pulse of his people, championing their welfare and fighting against external domination. His reign saw the formation of the Offa Town Council (1953) and the Offa District Council (1956), both instrumental in providing public services and social amenities. He oversaw the construction of critical roads linking Offa to neighboring villages, the establishment of the Owode Market (1958), and the introduction of banking services with the arrival of Barclays Bank (now Union Bank) in 1958. His leadership was also instrumental in the campaign against the Ilorin Native Authority, which resulted in the abolishment of the Alkali Court and the establishment of an independent Native Court in Offa, presided over by the Olofa.
Education flourished under Oba Wuraola Isioye. Offa Grammar School, the first community-funded secondary school in Northern Nigeria, was founded in 1943 through the efforts of the Offa Descendants Union (ODU). In 1955, Anglican College of Commerce (formerly a community girls’ school) was established. The fight for university education in Offa was championed by the Offa Descendants Union (ODU), which sponsored promising indigenes such as S.A. Agboola and Ilufoye Popoola to study at the University of Ibadan. Healthcare also advanced with the construction of Offa General Hospital (1948–1954) and the establishment of the Domestic Science Centre.
Yet, politics played a cruel hand. In 1957, the Northern Regional Government deposed Oba Wuraola Isioye. Why? People wondered. Although the government officially cited old age, many saw it as a politically motivated decision. Forced into exile in Ogbomoso, Oba Isioye remained deeply beloved by the people of Offa, who, through the ODU, continued to pay his salary until his death.
In December 1968, Col. David Lasisi Bamigboye, the first military governor of the then-newly created Kwara State, inherited the ongoing royal crisis. One of his first assignments was to commission an inquiry into the Olofa chieftaincy dispute. The Sawyer Commission, as it later became known, thoroughly examined Oba Isioye’s case and ruled that the allegations against him did not justify his removal. Consequently, it recommended his reinstatement as Olofa.
During this 10-year transition period, the throne could not remain vacant—Offa needed a king. However, when the government approached the Anilelerin Ruling House to present a new omo oyè (royal heir), no one was willing to step forward. The reason? In Yoruba tradition, Bi ọba kan o ku, omiran o lè jé—”Until a king is properly buried, another cannot ascend the throne.”
Faced with this reluctance, the government turned to the Olugbense Ruling House, as Anilelerin was not the only royal lineage in Offa. Seeing this as an opportunity to reclaim what they perceived as a long-lost entitlement to the stool, Olugbense swiftly presented a willing omo oyè.
Thus, in 1959, Alhaji Mustafa Keji of the Olugbense Ruling House was appointed as Olofa, serving both as the town’s ruler and head of the district council under the Ilorin Emirate.
He was the last son of Alhaji Bakare Keji, a wealthy businessman, a generous man, and a devoted lover of Offa, who once contested for the throne but lost, unable to fulfill his ambition before his passing.
Just like his father, Alhaji Mustafa Keji deeply loved Offa and was devoted to fostering peace, never one to encourage conflict or discord. A gentle and urbane leader, he commanded widespread respect for his wisdom and temperament. Known for his moderate yet profound understanding of Islam, he upheld the values of harmony and integrity in all aspects of his life. His dedication to service was evident in his role as a court staff, where he carried out his duties with diligence and fairness, earning him admiration within and beyond the community.
It was no surprise, then, that he was turbaned—following the tradition common in Ilorin and northern Nigeria, where Islam was deeply rooted—rather than wearing the crown Offa was historically known for. This was not necessarily a bad thing. For one, Offa is part of northern Nigeria, and secondly, Muslims unarguably form the majority in the town.
Nevertheless, his reign brought significant developments, including the introduction of pipe-borne water and electricity, Offa’s elevation to the Administrative Headquarters of Oyun Local Government, and the founding of St. Clare’s Girls’ Grammar School. However, his tenure remained overshadowed by the unresolved controversy of his predecessor’s forced exile.
The Sawyer Commission—remember one of its major recommendations? Of course! With the commission ruling in favour of Oba Isioye’s reinstatement, it naturally meant that Alhaji Mustafa Keji had to abdicate.
Unfortunately, the decision came too late. Even before the government’s white paper confirming the ruling was issued, Oba Wuraola had already joined his ancestors on May 4, 1969—two months before the report was released on July 8, 1969.
With his passing, the government had no choice but to turn to the Anilelerin Ruling House to nominate a new king. Meanwhile, Alhaji Mustafa Keji was granted a peaceful retirement with full benefits, closing one chapter of Offa’s royal history and ushering in another.
It was in this atmosphere of transition that destiny called upon the then-Prince Mustafa Olanipekun, a grandson of the 17th Olofa, to step forward and claim his place in history. Born on Thursday, August 1, 1935, Prince Mustafa Olawoore Olanipekun was destined for greatness long before he ever adorned the royal crown.
He was the second-born of his father, Prince Kelani Idowu Olanipekun, one of the sons of Oba Oyeniran Ariwajoye I, the 17th Olofa of Offa. His elder brother, Prince Salami—fondly known as Baba Station—shared the same mother, Princess Umuani Adedoja Olanipekun. Princess Umuani hailed from the distinguished Shawo Aroworale family, further deepening his noble heritage. His lineage was steeped in royalty, a legacy that shaped his destiny from birth.
Like many monarchs of his time (and even some in the present day), his grandfather, Oba Ariwajoye I had numerous children from different wives.
His sons included Prince Olarinoye and Prince Popoola, both of Ijeu’s Compound like Olanipekun; Prince Yesufu Soladoye of Arogun’s Compound; Prince Joshua and Prince Rabusu of Ile Agbe; Prince Sanni Olaleke of Ile Ladodo; Prince Gbadamosi of Ile Onigosun; Prince Yusuf, known as Omo Omo Ariwajoye, from Ile Oba; Prince Babaladun of Ile Abugba; and Prince Iwaloye.
His daughters included Princess Marinoye of Ile Ladodo, Princess Saadatu Masoyeje of Ile Oluode, and Princess Wuraola, fondly known as Iya Hajiya.
As for why they settled in different compounds? Well, that’s a story for another time!
Prince Olanipekun, in turn, had other children from another wife, Mama Munirat.
Oláwóore was a true son of his father, embodying the strength and nobility of his lineage. Perhaps this was why Alhaji Odolaye Aremu once said, “Ojú owó l’ojẹ ninu ọmọ Olanipekun—A distinguished son of Olanipekun, Ojú owó l’ojẹ ninu ọmọ Anilelerin—A noble heir of Anilelerin’s proud lineage.”
As was customary in noble families, his early years were shaped by rigorous discipline, cultural refinement, and an unwavering emphasis on education. At the tender age of five, his upbringing took a decisive turn when he was sent to live with his uncle, Prince M. O. Popoola, a respected teacher and school headmaster known for his strict yet nurturing approach. This move took him from Ede to Esa-Oke, where he was enrolled at Anglican Primary School, Esa-Oke, in 1941. It was during this time that he first met Professor Oyawoye, marking the beginning of a connection that would later play a significant role in his life.
Prince Olawoore’s education became a journey in itself, following his uncle’s postings—from St. John’s School, Iloro-Ilesha, to the completion of his primary education in Oyan in 1948. By 1949, he returned home to Offa and attended Offa Grammar School, where he studied until 1951. Though he longed to pursue higher education, fate had a way of signaling its intentions.
As the Yoruba proverb wisely states, “Ori tí yóò sùwón, kìí gbó”—a head destined for greatness will not be deterred. This sentiment is beautifully echoed in another saying: “Ori tí ó dáde inú agogo idẹ ni ti wà, òrùn tí yóò lò ejigbàrà ilẹkẹ ati aṣọ ọba tí tàná yànrán yànrán inú agogo idẹ náà ni ti wà.” (The head that will wear the crown is already within the bronze bell; the neck that will be adorned with royal beads and robes glows brilliantly within it.)
Indeed, he was destined to be king. Alhaji Odolaye Aremu sang to this truth in his stirring lyrics: “Oba ti o ti oyun inu wa j’ọba”—The king who was chosen even before birth. These words speak to the profound belief that greatness is preordained, and that some are born to fulfill extraordinary destinies.
Many obstacles could have derailed his path, yet destiny had already set its course. A particularly foreboding moment in August 1947, as the story goes, foreshadowed his remarkable future.
On that fateful day, young Prince Oláwóore Olanipekun fell headlong into a 24-foot-deep well—an incident that should have ended in tragedy. Miraculously, however, watchful neighbors sprang into action, rescuing him from the brink of death.
To the town’s elders, mystics, and those attuned to the spiritual realm, this was no mere coincidence. It was an unmistakable sign that this child was no ordinary prince—his life was marked for greatness, his destiny already inscribed in the annals of time.
In 1953, his journey took him northward, far from the royal corridors of Offa, to the bustling trade hub of Gombe. There, he joined his elder brother, Prince Salami, immersing himself in the world of commerce. Under his brother’s guidance, he became a student of enterprise, navigating the intricate world of trade. By 1954, he had carved a niche for himself as a formidable businessman, trading in sugar, soap, kerosene, petroleum products, toiletries, and zinc iron sheets. His acumen caught the attention of colonial trading giants G.B. Ollivant and CFAO, and he soon became a distributor for these renowned firms. His business empire expanded to include transportation, hotel management, and petrol marketing, earning him widespread recognition. By the time he returned to Offa in 1968, he was already a eminent personality in Kwara State’s economic landscape. The Nigeria Tobacco Company (NTC) took note of his influence and appointed him as a Distributor for Ilorin Zone the same year, an acknowledgment of his business prowess.
Mustafa Olawoore Olanipekun’s ascent to the throne in 1969 was marked by determination, boldness, and a strategic mindset. In ‘Path to Destiny’ (pages 366–367), Professor Oyawoye recounts a moment from this period: a midnight visit from Prince Olawoore, during which he made his ambition unmistakably clear, declaring, “Mo fe j’oba” (“I want to be king”). Much like the modern-day “Emi l’okan” declaration—”Mo fe je President” (“I want to become president”)—his direct and confident statement reflected his resolute nature and unshakable determination, leaving no room for doubt about his destiny.
Unlike other princes who also vied for the throne but employed less effective strategies (a fact Professor Oyawoye noted by mentioning some in this category), Olawoore’s audacity set him apart. His unwavering boldness was no surprise to those who knew him well—it had always been a defining trait.
Thus, when the princes and princesses of the Anilelerin Ruling House presented his name on Friday, August 1, 1969—his 34th birthday—his nomination came as no surprise. The kingmakers swiftly ratified his selection, and on January 21, 1970, the Kwara State Government officially approved his appointment as the 23rd Olofa of Offa.
Even before his official coronation, the forward-thinking Oba Olawoore had commissioned Pa Ahmed Olaoye to compose a befitting anthem for Offa, intending for it to be unveiled on his coronation day. The anthem was completed in time and was first read at his coronation, a grand event held on October 8, 1971, when he received his staff of office from the same Military Governor of the State, Colonel Lasisi Bamigboye (now Rtd.). Witnessed by many with joy and fulfillment, the occasion was a testament to his rightful place on the throne. Indeed, Alhaji Odolaye Aremu was right when he proclaimed, “Ade orí Ayinde Òkín súwọn o bá awujọ gbogbo wa mú”—The crown on the head of Ayinde Òkín is precious and brings fulfillment to all.
The anthem was later ratified and officially adopted by the Professor Oyawoye-led ODU in 1992 and remains in use to this day.
A decade later, in 1981, Oba Ariwajoye II’s status was further elevated when the first civilian Governor of the state, Alhaji Adamu Attah conferred upon him the esteemed title of First-Class Oba, solidifying his legacy as a distinguished monarch.
The three decades that followed were years of remarkable transformation. Education was at the heart of his vision for Offa. Under his leadership, public secondary schools increased from three to fourteen, and tertiary institutions flourished, including the establishment of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, the Federal Politechnic, Nigerian Navy School of Health Sciences. His reign also saw unprecedented economic expansion—banks grew from two to nine, industries and micro-enterprises flourished, and the Owode International Market emerged as a major commercial hub. Healthcare followed suit, with the number of government-approved private hospitals rising from two to more than ten, and Offa attaining the status of a Specialist Hospital for comprehensive healthcare delivery.
If one examines the moderate achievements of his grandfather, Oba Oyeniran Ariwajoye I, one could argue that he inherited his visionary leadership. Historical records show that during Oba Ariwajoye I’s reign, the railway reached Offa, Christianity took root in the town, the first primary school (CMS) was established in the Ibolo district, and Offa attained the status of a Second-Class Chiefdom.
Beyond development, Oba Olawoore’s reign bore witness to moments of prophecy fulfilled. Sheikh Jamiyu Bulala, a revered sage, was said to have foretold that during his time, Offa would witness an influx of displaced people from a foreign land. But how true was this prophecy? Whether one believes it or not, barely four months into his reign, something significant happened far away in Ghana.
At the time, Ghana was home to a large population of Offa indigenes—arguably more than any other Yorubas in the country. Then, on November 18, 1969, the Ghanaian government, under Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, enacted the Aliens’ Compliance Order, expelling over 200,000 Nigerians. And what became of those from Offa? Your guess is as good as mine! Many of these displaced individuals, along with their families, made their way back home. Some even brought along friends who had no prior ties to Offa but sought refuge there. As a result, the town became unusually full—just as the sage had predicted.
During his reign, Oba Ariwajoye II welcomed many influential figures to his palace, including military leaders, civilian presidents, governors, and top administrators. Notable guests included General Yakubu Gowon, Lt. Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo (both as a military and civilian president), Major General Muhammadu Buhari, and General Ibrahim Babangida, among others. These leaders were drawn to his wisdom, diplomatic skills, and unique ability to blend tradition with modernity. His court became a center of honor, intellect, and cultural pride, leaving a lasting impression on all who visited.
Throughout his forty-year reign as Olofa, many stories—some verifiable, others mere speculation—circulated about Oba Ariwajoye II. One popular tale claimed that he would sometimes wear shorts in the evening and walk around town like an ordinary citizen. It was said that he did this to experience life through the eyes of his subjects, observing their struggles firsthand so he could better advocate for their needs with the relevant authorities.
Another widely shared anecdote about him concerned ‘palace etiquette.’ It was believed that when visitors expected a gift, Kabiyesi would often remark, “Wọn kìí gb’èru ènìyàn láàfin, won máa ń sọ ènìyàn k’ale ni,” meaning, “People don’t come to the palace to receive gifts; rather, they should bring gifts to the palace.” While the authenticity of these stories remains uncertain, what is undeniable is that Oba Ariwajoye II had a keen sense of humour and a deep connection to his people and his time.
After four decades on the throne, the inevitable moment arrived on March 11, 2010, when Oba Ariwajoye II answered the call of his ancestors. His passing marked the end of an era defined by resilience, wisdom, and visionary leadership. More than a ruler, he was a father figure, a mentor, and the architect of modern Offa, laying a strong foundation for future generations to build upon. His reign shaped the town’s progress, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide his people.
Following his departure, Oba Muhammed Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II Ajagungbade I ascended as the 24th Olofa of Offa. A prominent business mogul, he brought renewed strength and inspiration to a community eager for progress. Fifteen years later, Offa continues to thrive under his leadership, with various development initiatives in full swing.
As Oba Ariwajoye II’s reign concluded, he left behind a transformed town and an empowered populace, instilling inspiration and hope in the community. This transformation brings to mind the lyrics of the late Ewi exponent, Alhaji Chief Mas’ud Akanmu Olarewaju Adepoju. On side two (igba Kan O Lo Ile Aye) of his song “Agbara Idibo,” which was released in 2011, he presents profound philosophical reflections on the ephemeral essence of existence, serving as a reminder of our mortality and the inevitability of the human cycle: a time to be born and a time to die.
Adepoju, who held the title of Are Alasa of Ibadan land, recounts the lives of remarkable individuals, including Olofas, who once graced the earth, illustrating that even the most powerful among us are not exempt from mortality. At its core, his song encourages us to perform good deeds during our time on Earth, reminding us that our actions shape how we are remembered after we depart. This moral imperative serves as a timeless reminder that our legacies can endure long after we are gone.
The enduring resonance of this message calls us to lead meaningful lives and leave a positive impact on the world. Yes, Oba Olawoore was not perfect—nor are we. However, what is undeniable is that the legacy of Oba Mustafa Olawoore Olanipekun Ariwajoye II stands as a testament to a life lived with purpose and unwavering dedication to his people. His reign was defined by elegance, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to the welfare and progress of Offa. He was loved by all! Even those who may have had reservations when he first ascended the throne sought reconciliation before his passing.
This sentiment echoes the words of Alhaji Odolaye Aremu, where he stated: “Ayinde Òkín, if you persevere and remain steadfast, even after sixteen years, your enemies will become your friends—Ayinde ọkín ti o ba kọ ti o ba kú, ọta ọdun mẹrindinlogun n bo wa di ọrẹ rẹ ooo.”
The late Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi, is said to have once said something that perfectly expressed this sentiment: “Offa and Kwara State were fortunate to have had Oba Mustafa Olanipekun Ariwajoye II as their king.”
As another month of March approaches—the month of Oba Olawoore’s death—this year commemorates fifteen years since his departure. I pray to Almighty Allah for the continued repose of his gentle soul. Amin!
Abdulfatai is a freelance researcher, writer, biographer, and history enthusiast.
