NIGERIA- Tragedy struck the Adesida royal home of Akure, and the entire Ondo State yesterday when the news broke out that the paramount ruler of the capital and chairman of the Council of Obas in Ondo State, Oba Adebiyi Adesida Afunbiowo (11) passed on to join his ancestors.

The demise of the 63-year-old ruler, who mounted the throne on August 12, 2010, was announced yesterday evening by the Sao of Akure, High Chief Moses Adewole Adebayo, describing the death as a rude shock to the entire people of Akureland.

Speaking in an emotional-laden voice, the High Chief described the late monarch as a man whose achievements can never be measured.

He also added that the funeral rites of the monarch would be decided today by the CVouncil of Chiefs, warning that this period of mourning should not be used for the breakage of laws and order in the kingdom.

Following the announcement, the popular Oja Oba (Erekesan) market was closed. Traders shut their shops as a mark of honour.

The late Oba Adesida was born into the Ojijigogun ruling house. He ascended the throne after being recalled from London following the dethronement of Oba Oluwadare Adepoju Adesina, for gross misconduct and abuse of office.

One of the early callers at the Deji’s palace yesterday was the former Presidential Candidate and the Olu of Ilu-Abo, High Chief Olu Falae, leader of Afenifere in Akure, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, and many more.

Meanwhile, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has commiserated with the Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the entire people of Akure on the demise of the Deji.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, President Jonathan also extended sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.

“As they mourn Oba Adesida who has sadly passed on just a little over three years after his coronation, the President urges them to take solace in the belief that God’s will is unquestionable and must always prevail.

“He assured Governor Mimiko, the late monarch’s family and the people of Akure of his sympathy and solidarity with them as they grieve over Oba Adesida’s demise.

“He prays that God Almighty will comfort them all and grant the late Oba’s soul peaceful repose,” the statement read.