Odunaro Becomes Osorun of Isaga-Orile, Filling 37-Year-Old Vacant Kingmaker Stool
After nearly four decades of vacancy, the revered Osorun stool — one of the key kingmaker titles in Isaga-Orile Kingdom — has finally been filled.
On Saturday, Baaroyin Kayode Odunaro, Chief of Staff and Media Adviser to Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi, was officially installed as the new Osorun of the ancient kingdom in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The chieftaincy position, last held by Odunaro’s uncle who was installed in 1958 and served until his death in 1988, has remained unoccupied for 37 years. The Osorun title is traditionally reserved for Odunaro’s lineage.
Speaking shortly after his installation by the Onisaga of Isaga-Orile, Oba Joseph Oladele Olusoji Tella, High Chief Odunaro expressed profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility.
He noted that, while he holds other traditional titles, the Osorun role is particularly significant due to its status as a key kingmaker position within the traditional council.
“This is not just a title,” Odunaro remarked. “It is a call to serve my people more directly. The Osorun title will enable me to actively participate in the cultural and leadership affairs of Isaga-Orile, especially in matters relating to the selection of a new Oba when the time comes.”
A seasoned media professional, Odunaro previously served as Chief Press Secretary to former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and as a spokesperson to three past administrations in the state.
He assured that the experience and insights he gained in public service would be channeled toward the advancement of Isaga-Orile.
“I am elated to be stepping into this role after such a long interregnum. It is both a personal and communal milestone,” he said. “My commitment is to bring development, unity, and a renewed sense of purpose to our traditional institutions, just as I did in public service.”
The installation ceremony was a grand affair, drawing dignitaries from within and outside Ogun State. Among those in attendance were Senator Tokunbo Abiru (Lagos East); the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola; Deputy Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Atinuke Bello; former NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Ade Abolurin; members of the State Assembly; the Seriki of Egbaland, Chief Tosin Fadare; as well as numerous traditional rulers and community leaders.
