Words were insufficient to capture the breadth of my thoughts when I heard with profound grief, great consternation, shock and pain the news of the passage to eternal glory to the celestial realm of Oba Michael Folorunsho Segun Olobayo O.O.N(JP), the Obaro Ero II, The Obaro of Kabba and Chairman Okun area traditional council.
Kabba under his watch (October, 1985-May, 2016), witnessed tremendous growth across all spheres while peace constantly enveloped the area throughout his time. Oba M.F.S Olobayo wore many caps with admirable panache and as a monarch of international repute, he helped promote the rich cultural heritage and history of the Kabba people.
The Obaro’s reign and carriage for 30 years 7 months on the throne comes with an élan that was peculiar with the reverence of royalty.
Indeed, since hearing of the Obaro’s voyage to unite with his ancestors, many sons and daughters of Okunland have been unable to come to terms with the reality because of his robust unifying spirit, systematic objectivity and clinical genuineness. This is more so as the late Obaro truly meant a lot to us as an unparalleled progressive King with the milk of human kindness, as well as a great mentor and inspiration.
Our iconic and reverend ruler radiated royalty, majesty, wisdom, intelligence and nationalism even as he spared no effort in protecting the traditions and values of his subject.
I had always held our Obaro in awe for a number of reasons. Apart from his age and royalty, the sage combines many stars that make him a galaxy, a dazzzling spectacle to behold. Three of these sparkling stars that caught my fancy were his tenacity, simplicity and humility.
The transition of good men like him is a loss to humanity, not just his family and other entities to which he was affliated, I immensely commiserates with the family, especially his wives and children, kin and compatriots and the entire Kogi collective.
I pray the Almighty God to grant Oba (Dr) Michael Folorunsho Segun Olobayo. O.O.N(JP) eternal bliss.
Farewell quintessential philosopher King, egalitarian Oba, bridge builder and unifier, peacemaker and uncompromising bulwark of the people and Owe kingdom.
– Balogun Emmanuel Funsho writes from the ancient town of Kabba, Kogi State.
He can be reached on 07034444976 or irule9ja@gmail.com
