The Nigerian entertainment industry has joined residents of Ipokia Kingdom in Ogun State to mourn the passing of the Onipokia of Ipokia, Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, who died at the age of 55.
The revered monarch reportedly passed away on June 27, 2026, following complications arising from a surgical procedure. News of his death became widely known on Sunday, June 29, prompting an outpouring of grief from community members, traditional leaders and Nollywood celebrities.
Among the first to react was actress Seyi Edun, who said she was devastated by the monarch’s sudden demise.
Expressing her sorrow in a heartfelt tribute, she wrote: “Haaa Kabiyesi. I’m speechless. I don’t wanna believe this news, I’m still in shock. May your kind soul rest in peace. Your good legacy lives on. May God console your family.”
President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Mr Latin, also paid glowing tribute to the late monarch, describing him as a humble, compassionate and generous leader whose kindness touched many lives.
According to him, Oba Olaniyan was known for helping people long before he ascended the throne, noting that he personally benefited from the monarch’s generosity.
“Long before he ascended the throne, his humility, kindness, and willingness to help others were unmatched. I am personally a beneficiary of his generosity,” he said.
Other Nollywood figures, including Akin Boss, also remembered the monarch as a dependable supporter who connected many people with opportunities and positively impacted countless lives.
Actor Jigan Baba Oja reacted with shock to the news, while actress Funke Etti simply described the late monarch as “a very nice man.”
Before ascending the throne, Oba Olaniyan reportedly spent more than 20 years in the United States. He became the 46th Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom in 2020 and served until his death in 2026.
During his reign, he earned widespread respect for promoting community development, preserving the cultural heritage of Ipokia Kingdom and fostering stronger relationships between the kingdom and its indigenes in the diaspora.
His death has left a deep sense of loss across Yewa and beyond, with many describing him as a monarch who championed unity, youth empowerment and the welfare of his people.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, Oba Yisa Olaniyan is being remembered not only for his leadership as a traditional ruler but also for the lasting relationships he built with individuals across the entertainment industry and other sectors.