It is a thing of joy that one of the oldest monarchs in the country, Oba (Dr.) Frederick Adegunle Aroloye (JP) OFR, Gbolagunte Arubiefin IV of Idanre Kingdom is marking his enthronement with splendor and expectedly the ancient town of Idanre is embroiled in jubilation. The Oba who was installed as the 26th Owa of Idanre in September 1976 by the then Military Governor of Ondo State, Wing Commander Ita David Ikpeme is still bubbling with energy at 94. His enthronement as the 26th Owa of Idanre was after a prolonged interregnum of seven years and strong fierce contest. Prior to his ascension to the throne of his forefathers, Oba Aroloye had his early education in Idanre and secondary school education in Benin City and Warri. He thereafter travelled to the United Kingdom for higher studies. Thus, was acknowledged as one of the very first traditional rulers in Nigeria to have acquired western education at tertiary level. On his return to Nigeria from United Kingdom in 1969, he worked in several Local Government Councils in the defunct Western Region and old Ondo State.
It was in public space that despite the fact the process of his selection was tortuous, violently contested and vehemently opposed, he showed large heart, accommodated all and sundry without discrimination. He always embraced peace and preaches peace at all times among all his subject without fear or favour. No wonder all his subjects at home and in the diaspora came together to celebrate his achievements over the years as well as long reign on the throne. Oba Aroloye is adjudged to be the longest reigning first class traditional Ruler around at the moment.
No doubt the reign of Oba Aroloye as the paramount ruler of Idanre Kingdom has brought significant progress and development to the town and has witnessed the transformation and development from an agrarian community to cosmopolitan city where several businesses and trades are thriving. The provision of infrastructure and basic services have also been significant improved. Likewise, physical expansion has been unprecedented during his long reign. In addition, the Obaship institution has been expanded with crown heads at Alade and Atosin and the creation of the position of Oluship in other settlements to ease effective administration and inclusiveness in the Kingdom. More instruments of development such as schools, safe water supply, electricity, transportation services among others have also improved over the years. Also, the construction of a second new link road between Idanre and Akure and the outside world by Akeredolu’s administration was accomplished during his period.
In addition to the above, the security of the Kingdom is far better than what it used to be and there is general security of life and property in the entire area. The welfare of farmers in the town changed for better, thanks to the lucrative cocoa business. Farmers are now seen erecting buildings of different structures and competing favourably with people in other towns and vocations
Beyond taking Idanre to greater heights, the revered Oba has impacted humanity by serving at various levels in the local government area, state and national levels. He was former president of Idanre/Ifedore Local Government Council of Obas and now President of Idanre Local Government Council of Obas and Chairman of Chieftaincy Committee. Other positions occupied by the Oba in the past include :Permanent Member, Ondo State Councils of Chiefs, Member, Ondo Elder’s Consultative Committee and Chairman, old Ondo State Council Of Obas three times (1987 to1989; 1989 to 1991 and 1991 to 1993). Also, he is a member of Council of State, Justice of Peace (JP), and Life Member, Red Cross, Member, Rotary Club, Member of the Lions Club. He is the grand patron of many clubs and social organizations in Idanre and abroad too numerous to name. Oba Aroloye is a philanthropist, humanist and a loving father who has helped people to reshape their future. Oba Fredrick Adegunle Aroloye is a devout Christian; he is happily married and blessed with wonderful children
Indeed, the Kabiyesi has made invaluable contributions to the life of his subjects, Kingdom and humanity. We believe there are still many rivers to cross and the Owa should not rest on his oars but continue to promote and propel the growth of his people, Ondo State and mankind as he has been doing since he ascended the throne.
The Hope in conjunction with several individuals and organizations took cognizance of the good performance of the King and wish to join in congratulating the Owa of Idanre on the occasion of his 45th Coronation anniversary.