BREAKING: Isolo Kingdom’s Prime Minister, High Chief Omotayo, is dead
*Shops, markets shut for 3 days for traditional rites in honour of late prime minister – Elemo
*Our condolences to Osolo, Isolo Council of Chiefs, deceased’s family – Adefaka Family
By KEMI KASUMU
“To observe the traditional rites, all shops and markets around his quarters will be closed down for 3 days starting from tomorrow Saturday 29th Nov till Monday 1st December, 2025.”
The Lisa and Second-in-Command to the Osolo of Isolo Kingdom in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, High Chief Joshua Omotayo popularly known as 13-13 has passed away.
High Chief Omotayo, who by the stature of his chieftaincy status is the Prime Minister of the kingdom, was said to have died on Friday after spending 40 years as the Lisa of Isolo.
High Chief Adetoyinbo Ibukun, the Elemo of Isolo, announced demise of the chairman of Eji-Oba Motel in a statement dated 28th November 2025 and copy of which was sent to The DEFENDER.
“The Isolo Council of Chiefs has officially announced the demise of our prime minister and second in command senior High Chief Josuah Omotayo the Lisa of Isolo Kingdom today Friday 28th Nov. 2025. Baba spent over 40 years on the throne.
“To observe the traditional rites, all shops and markets around his quarters will be closed down for 3 days starting from tomorrow Saturday 29th Nov till Monday 1st December, 2025.
“The council extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and the people of Isolo Kingdom. May his soul rest in peace,” said the statement.
Details about the deceased’s cause of death and age were not available as at the time of filing this report.
In the meantime, the Adefaka Family, a member of the Abibiri Ruling House of Isolo Kingdom and Ojijigogu Ruling House of Akure Kingdom, has sent their condolences to the Osolo of Isolo Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Edward Kolawole Adewole, Osalade II, the Isolo Council of Chiefs and the family of the late High Chief Joshua Omotayo.
In a statement issued by Secretary/Public Relations Officer of the Adefaka Family, Prince Bashir Adefaka, the late High Chief was described as a loving father, who spent the best of his time in support of the building of Isolo Kingdom.
According to the statement, “The Prince Babatunde Saliu Adefaka-led Adefaka Family of Isolo and Akure kingdoms in Akure South, Ondo State, has received with sorrow the news of demise of our respected community father, High Chief Joshua Omotayo popularly known as 13-13 in our growing up days as children of the ancient community.
“Much as we are saddened by the rude shock we have sustained from the passing of this great community leader, we are also consoled by the fact that he lived a life full of fulfillment both for his immediate family and the entire Isolo community in general.
“His role in the actualisation of desired growth and development of Isolo as a united and and progressive kingdom will remain a life experience that cannot be wished away in a hurry.
“May his soul rest in peace with his Lord, Amiin,” the statement said.
