The town of Offa, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, has been shaped by the remarkable rulers who have governed it over the centuries. Each Olofa has contributed uniquely to the development, stability, and cultural richness of Offa. This blog post takes you on a fascinating journey through the lineage of Offa’s rulers, highlighting their significant achievements and the eras they defined.
The Lineage of Offa Rulers: From Inception to Present
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Olalomi (1397 – 1448)
Known as the founder of Offa, Olalomi was a skilled hunter and a prince of Oranmiyan descent. His reign marked the beginning of a new settlement, which he named Offa.
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Olutide (1448 – 1491)
During his 43-year reign, Olutide faced conflicts with the Nupes and established Offa Esun.
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Olugbensinde (1491 – 1526)
Olugbensinde moved the settlement to Offa Igbolotu and maintained peace for 35 years.
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Oluwole (1526 – 1567)
Oluwole’s 41-year reign was marked by wars with the Nupes, showcasing his strategic prowess.
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Okunmolu (1567 – 1624)
Okunmolu settled on the present site of Offa Igboro and reigned for 57 years, providing stability and growth.
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Olusanle (1624 – 1679)
Olusanle assisted the Alafin in expanding the kingdom during his 55-year rule.
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Olusanmi (1679 – 1726)
Olusanmi continued the expansion efforts for 47 years.
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Olugbense (1726 – 1786)
Olugbense’s 60-year reign saw the construction of roads in Offa and the resolution of conflicts with Erinle.
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Bamgbola Aremu Agbojojoye (1789 – 1800)
Known for his peaceful reign of 11 years, Bamgbola Aremu Agbojojoye maintained harmony in Offa.
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Amodu Agaka (1800 – 1803)
Amodu Agaka’s short 3-year reign was affected by the Fulani wars with Oyo.
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Olumorin Anilelerin (1803 – 1832)
During his 29-year reign, Offa faced invasions from the Nupes, leading to temporary relocations.
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Alade Alebiosu (1832 – 1844)
As the supreme overlord of the Ibolo kingdom, Alade Alebiosu reigned for 12 years.
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Ariyibi Omolaoye (1844 – 1850)
Ariyi Omolaoye’s 6-year reign was marked by stability and continuity.
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Morounhunfolu Okunoye (1850 – 1882)
With a reign of 32 years, Morounhunfolu Okunoye navigated conflicts with Ilorin and the Jalumi war.
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Atoloye Adegboye (1882 – 1886)
Atoloye Adegboye led Offa for 4 years, during which time the community faced challenges.
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Arokansorisa Otaogbaiye (2nd Reign) (1886 – 1902)
During his 16-year second reign, Arokansorisa Otaogbaiye provided leadership amidst external conflicts.
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Atoloye Adegboye (2nd Reign) (1902 – 1906)
Returning for a second reign, Atoloye Adegboye oversaw the arrival of the railway line to Offa.
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Oyeniran Ariwajoye I (1906 – 1917)
Oyeniran Ariwajoye I’s 11-year reign saw significant developments, including the establishment of the first primary school and the Christian mission in Offa.
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Arojojoye Adeboye (1917 – 1920)
In his 3-year reign, Arojojoye Adeboye oversaw the construction of the Offa Erin-Ile road.
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Abidoye (1920 – 1926)
Abidoye’s 6-year reign was marked by his popularity and beloved leadership.
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Esuwoye I (1926 – 1936)
Esuwoye I roofed the palace with iron sheets during his 10-year reign, marking a period of modernization.
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Wuraola Isioye (1936 – 1957)
During Wuraola Isioye’s 21-year reign, significant developments included the rebuilding of the Onimoka shrine, the construction of a central mosque, and the establishment of a general hospital.
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Mustapha Keji (1959 – 1969)
Mustapha Keji’s 10-year reign brought infrastructural advancements like pipe-borne water and electricity, and Offa became the administrative headquarters of Oyun Local Government.
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Mustapha Olawore Olanipekun Ariwajoye II (1970 – 2010)
Ariwajoye II’s 40-year reign was marked by significant modernization, including the rebuilding of the palace, the establishment of industries, and the upgrade of Offa to a first-class Oba. Notable developments included the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Offa and the Navy Academy.
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Muftau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II (2010 – Present)
The current ruler, Muftau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, continues to lead Offa, building on the legacy of his predecessors and guiding the town toward future prosperity.
The history of Offa is a testament to the resilience, wisdom, and leadership of its rulers. From the founding days under Olalomi to the modern developments under Muftau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, each Olofa has left an indelible mark on the community. Their legacies continue to inspire and shape the future of Offa, ensuring that its rich cultural heritage and traditions are preserved for generations to come.
