Following the passing of the Oniko of Ikolaje-Idiroko, Oba John Olakunle Ojo, in August 2025, succession proceedings have intensified as three prominent contenders from the Odunfa Ruling House step forward for the revered stool. The Ipokia Local Government Council now faces the task of overseeing a keenly contested selection process.
Among the aspirants is Prince Olagorioye Jonah Ariori, whose nomination has been formally endorsed by the Odunfa Ruling House. His candidacy was seconded by Princes Adelu Fatai and Gbemisola Olagorioye, with the certificate of nomination signed by the family head, Prince Kumuyi Omolade, alongside six other distinguished princes.
In a certificate of nomination, Prince Ariori, was nominated and seconded by princes Adelu Fatai and Gbemisola Olagorioye, respectively, and was signed by the family head, Prince Kumuyi Omolade and six other notable princes from the family. Born 43 years ago in Iga-Oba Ikolaje, Idiroko, to Mrs. Ajimoh Olagorioye and Mr. Atinsola Olagorioye, Prince Ariori hails from the Odunfa Ruling House, one of the royal lineages, descendant of Oba Adio Asiloye, the then Oniko. His mother, Ajimoh Yekinni Alapara Ija of Ibatefin, is a princess and a descendant of Oba Atewogboye, also a former Oniko of Iko. Prince Ariori is a custodian of culture and tradition. Despite his educational background, he remains actively involved in traditional practices and is a member of the Traditional Drummers of Iko Idiroko, with deep knowledge of Gbedu and its application in various traditional ceremonies and events. A dedicated human resource and administrative professional, with a solid academic background in Business Administration and practical experience in public sector human resource operations, Prince Ariori is also an advocate of culture and value, based on his community upbringing and dint of service to humanity. He relates freely with everyone, irrespective of faith, tribes and has zero tolerance for sentiment. He has built a solid foundation in Human Resource Management through effective people management, employee development, and sound administrative practices. He also itends to further apply these skills in service to institutions that promote cultural values, excellence, continuous learning, and community development. CORE CULTURAL VALUES & SKILLS Prince Ariori is a custodian of Yoruba culture and traditional heritage, who has practical knowledge of traditional drumming, especially Gbedu Oba and ceremonial practices. He has a strong commitment to community service, unity, and development, respect for traditional authority, elders, cultural institutions, leadership and stewardship in cultural and community affairs. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Industrial Training Fund (ITF) — Human Resource Officer, 2024 to date; he was General Manager of Lawlad Motors between 2022 and 2024 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES in CULTURAL HERITAGE and VALUE: Preserving, promoting, and upholding indigenous cultural heritage and traditions; supporting traditional institutions and participating in cultural and ceremonial activities; educating younger generations on cultural values, norms, and practices; promoting unity, peace, and mutual respect within the community; assisting in the documentation and continuity of cultural customs and history EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: Prince Ariori is a Higher National Diploma (HND) certificate holder in Business Administration, bagged from the Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa 2020 – 2022; National Diploma in Marketing, from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro – 2004 – 2007; West African Senior School Certificate (WASCE) from Iko-Gateway Grammar School, Idiroko, Ogun State in 2003; and First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) from Brighter Nursery & Primary School, Idiroko, Ogun State – 1997. COMMUNITY & LEADERSHIP INVOLVEMENT: Financial Secretary, Ikolaje Idiroko Indigenous Elders, Youths & Chiefs Forum (2013 – 2020); Financial Secretary, Community Development Association (CDA), Okoro Aromirele Street, Idiroko; member, Ikolaje idiroko Youth Association; member, Iko Gateway Grammar School Old students Association.
