End of an Era: Pa Durojaye Ariyo laid to rest as Isinkan bids farewell to its oldest man

…Our father was a repository of history – Kunle Ariyo

The Isinkan community in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State has bid farewell to its oldest man, Pa (Prince) Durojaye Ariyo, the Olori Omowa of Isinkan, who died peacefully at the age of 110.

Pa Ariyo, widely regarded as a custodian of Isinkan history and tradition, was buried on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his residence on Agunloye Street, Isinkan, following a Christian wake held a day earlier.

Family members, traditional rulers, community leaders, friends and well-wishers gathered to honour the late patriarch, whose passing marked the end of an era in the ancient kingdom.

As the longest-living elder in Isinkan, Pa Ariyo was celebrated not only for his longevity but for his role as a living archive of the kingdom’s history, royal lineage and cultural values. His life spanned colonial rule, Nigeria’s independence and the modern era.

The burial rites were marked by solemn hymns, prayers and tributes highlighting a life defined by faith, humility, discipline and service to the community.

Preaching at the Christian wake on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Pastor Olugbenga Adetona of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Redeemer’s Assembly, described the late elder as a man who lived by godly principles.

“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 on Wednesday was emotional as prayers were offered while the casket was lowered.

In his sermon, Pastor Taiwo Ologun of RCCG, Redeemer’s Assembly, urged attendees 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, renowned journalist Kunle Ariyo, one of the deceased’s children, described his 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.

He added that his father, as Olori Omowa, consistently reminded princes and princesses of their responsibilities within the kingdom.

“He believed leadership was about character, not privilege. Honour, to him, was earned through conduct,” Kunle Ariyo said.

Although the Iralepo of Isinkan was not physically present at the burial, in line with tradition, his authority was represented by the staff of office, symbolising royal approval and endorsement of the rites.

The ceremony attracted a strong traditional presence, with Olus, high chiefs and chiefs from Isinkan Kingdom and neighbouring communities in attendance.

The family announced that burial rites are ongoing. A Seventh-Day Burial Rite will be held at the late patriarch’s residence on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, while the final burial ceremony has been scheduled for November 6, 2026.

Born in late 1915, Pa Ariyo was remembered as a successful farmer, respected community leader and a source of counsel whose home served as a place of reconciliation and wisdom for generations.

He is survived by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives.