Residents of Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, are gripped with anxiety following unconfirmed reports about the death of Oba Frederick Enitiolorunda Akinruntan, Okoro Ajija I, the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom and founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately owned oil companies.
According to sources, the 75-year-old monarch had been battling an undisclosed illness for some time and was reportedly flown abroad late last year for treatment. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding his demise.
Rumours and Speculations Surrounding His Whereabouts
Speaking with SaharaReporters, a source revealed:
“We heard that he was flown out of Nigeria last year because of his sickness. But maybe because he is king, they are trying to keep his death hush-hush.”
Another insider added:
“People in his area are saying that he is dead, but they decided to keep the news from the public. Since last November or December, nobody has heard from him. We also heard that rituals have been performed in his kingdom, but it was done quietly. They are only telling the public that he traveled out.”
Despite the widespread speculations, there has been no official statement from the palace or the Ondo State government regarding the monarch’s health status or alleged passing.
Oba Akinruntan’s Influence and Legacy
Born in 1950 into the royal family of Sir Frederick Adetolugbo in Ugbo, Obateru Akinruntan was the fourth of eight children. He lost his father in 1964 at the age of 14.
In 2009, he ascended the throne as the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, following traditional rites.
Oba Akinruntan is widely recognized as a business mogul in Nigeria’s oil sector. He is the founder of Obat Oil, a leading privately owned petroleum company in Nigeria.
His Wealth and Royal Status
In March 2014, Forbes estimated his net worth at $300 million, ranking him as:
- The second richest king in Africa
- The wealthiest monarch in Nigeria
- Only surpassed by King Mohammed VI of Morocco at the time
His influence extended beyond the oil industry. On September 13, 2019, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, appointed him as Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas for a two-year term.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
As of now, reports regarding Oba Akinruntan’s death remain unverified. The uncertainty has fueled growing speculation and concern within the Ugbo Kingdom and beyond.
Authorities and palace officials are yet to release an official statement, leaving residents and followers anxiously awaiting confirmation of the monarch’s status.
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