21st July, 2022, His Royal Majesty, Oba Emmanuel Olaleye Oniyelu, The first Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti joined his ancestors.This date can not be easily forgotten in the history of Ilupeju Ekiti, haven successfully ruled the town for 42 years without crisis.
Ilupeju Ekiti witnessed so many developments during the late monarch with the unflinching support of sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti under the leadership of (IDA) Ilupeju Development Association who mobilized indigenes of Ilupeju Ekiti and influence government to put infrastructures in place such as: Ultra modern Menara market which is the largest market in Oye Local government, Ilupeju-Itapa general hospital, health centre before Obalatan Grammar School, bank, business centres, Hotels/ guest houses, Magistrate Court, Ilupeju library, Town Hall, schools ( Both Primary and secondary) boreholes, worship centres, good roads network, post office, police station , civil defence office and Apeju’s palace to mention but few.
Also, it is pertinent to mention that the peaceful atmosphere of Ilupeju Ekiti under the reign of Oba Olaleye Oniyelu paved way for the aforementioned development . Consequently, the Establishment of Ifeloju Local Council Development Area, Ilupeju Ekiti and the rise of indigenes of the town to peak of their careers could be attested to as a good ruler whose prayers were answered on his subjects.
Oba Olaleye Emmanuel Oniyelu had set a good legacy for his successors to follow. He worked for the progress of Ilupeju Ekiti and her citizens.He librated the town with the cooperation and unalloy support of Ilupejus – home and abroad which make the town envy of other towns in Nigeria.
Oba Olaleye Oniyelu’s struggle for Apeju’s throne to attain Grade ‘A’ oba only came to fruition after his demise, hence, it’s worthy to be mentioned. To be Precise, on 30th September, 2022, the governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi approved the upgrade of 40 obas while Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti was among the 21 upgraded to ‘GRADE A’ OBA.
Oba Olaleye Emmanuel Oniyelu’s wish was to have Higher institutions of learning established in Ilupeju Ekiti. Unfortunately, he didn’t achieve this before he transited. Even at that, our witty, factual and diligent king came, saw and conquered.
