Renowned journalist, Kunle Ariyo describes his father as a repository of history, moral compass, pillar of strength

Tears flowed freely, but gratitude filled the air as family members, friends, traditional rulers, and well-wishers gathered in Isinkan, Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, to celebrate the extraordinary life of Pa (Prince) Durojaye Ariyo, the Olori Omowa of Isinkan and the oldest man in the Isinkan Kingdom.

His peaceful passing at the remarkable age of 110 years marked the end of an era.

As the oldest living elder in Isinkan, Pa Ariyo was more than a patriarch, he was a living bridge between the kingdom’s distant past and its present, a custodian of memory whose life spanned colonial rule, Nigeria’s independence, and modern nationhood.

The revered elder was honoured during a Christian wake on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, and laid to rest on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his residence on Agunloye Street, Isinkan.

The ceremonies were marked by solemn hymns, fervent prayers, and deeply emotional tributes, all reflecting a life anchored in faith, humility, discipline, and service to humanity.

A successful farmer and respected community leader, Pa Ariyo was widely regarded as a repository of Isinkan’s history – a living archive of traditions, royal lineages, and communal values.

Elders and youths alike recalled how he narrated historical events with striking clarity, often serving as a reference point in cultural, royal, and communal matters.

Preaching at the Christian wake, Pastor Olugbenga Adetona of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Redeemer’s Assembly, described the late patriarch as a man who finished his race in faith.

“Baba lived long because he lived right. He may not have gone to school, but God schooled him in wisdom. He walked with God, and today we celebrate not just his age, but his legacy,” Pastor Adetona said.

The interment ceremony the following morning was equally emotional as the casket was lowered amid tears and prayers.

In his sermon, Pastor Taiwo Ologun, also of RCCG, Redeemer’s Assembly, urged the congregation to reflect on the meaning of a fulfilled life.

“Longevity is a gift, but impact is the true testimony. Pa Ariyo lived beyond years; he lived in purpose, peace, and service to God and man,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, one of his children, Omo’ba Kunle Ariyo, described his late father as a moral compass and pillar of strength.

“Baba lived a full circle of God’s grace. He taught us patience, honesty, contentment, and the fear of God. Even without formal education, his understanding of life, people, and history surpassed many who had it,” he said.

Kunle Ariyo noted that as Olori Omowa, Pa Ariyo constantly reminded princes and princesses of their responsibility to lead by example.

“He believed leadership was about character, not privilege. Honour, to him, was earned through conduct,” he added.

Although the Iralepo of Isinkan could not attend the burial ceremony in person – as tradition demands – his authority was symbolically represented by the presence of his staff of office, signifying royal approval and traditional endorsement of the rites.

The ceremony attracted a strong traditional presence, with distinguished dignitaries, Olus, high chiefs, and chiefs from Isinkan Kingdom and neighbouring communities in attendance, underscoring the immense respect accorded to the kingdom’s oldest man.

The family announced that the burial rites are not yet concluded. A 7th Day Burial Rite will take place at the late patriarch’s residence on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, while the final burial ceremony has been scheduled for November 6, 2026, to allow adequate preparation for a grand farewell befitting his towering legacy.

Born in the late 1915, Pa (Prince) Durojaye Ariyo witnessed epochs of change yet remained firmly grounded in values that earned him reverence as one of Isinkan’s most respected and longest-living elders.

Many recalled his home as a place of counsel, reconciliation, and quiet wisdom, a sanctuary where generations found guidance.

As the rites continue, sorrow gradually gives way to thanksgiving – for a life well lived, a father deeply loved, and the oldest man in Isinkan Kingdom, whose legacy will endure across generations.

Pa Ariyo is survived by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives.