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PROFILE OF HIS ROYAL MAJESTY (HRM) OBA (ALHAJI) AKADIRI SALIU MOMOH IV, JP, CON
Championing peace, tradition, and development in Ikare-Akoko
The sun rises, casting golden rays over the hills of Ikare-Akoko, a town steeped in the echoes of history and the reverence of tradition. Beneath its ancient skies, where the whispers of ancestors still linger, stands a legacy, a lineage that flows like a sacred river through time.
“Kings are born, not made,” proclaims an age-old adage. And so it is with the Owalukare family dynasty, where nobility courses through the veins of its descendants, setting them apart with a regal blend of character and wisdom.
At the heart of this illustrious heritage stands His Royal Majesty (HRM), Oba (Alhaji) Akadiri Saliu Momoh IV, JP, CON, the paramount ruler of Ikare-Akoko Kingdom, a beacon of leadership and a custodian of tradition in Ondo State.
Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh was born on 20 June 1938 into the Momoh family of the Owalukare Ruling House in Okela, Ikare-Akoko. His father, Prince Saliu Momoh, was one of the sons of HRM Oba Momoh I, the 13th Olukare of Ikare (1922–1927). His mother, Salamotu, hailed from Arigidi-Akoko.
His grandfather, Oba Momoh I, was instrumental to the development of Ikare and is regarded as a symbol of the modern-day unification of Akokoland. He is credited with registering Ikare-Akoko under the then Regional Government of Nigeria in Lokoja, putting the town and Akokoland on the world map.
Young Akadiri began his primary education at St. Stephen’s Primary School, Ikare, in 1943. He attended Jubilee Central School, Ikare, from 1946 to 1951.
Upon completing his primary education, he proceeded to the prestigious Victory College, Ikare (VCI), between 1953 and 1958, where he was classmates with luminaries such as the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi and Sir (Dr) Joseph Sanusi, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. After his secondary education, young Akadiri worked with the Judiciary Department of the Old Western Region before travelling to the United States of America.
While in the USA, Kabiyesi proved himself as assiduous, focused, and accommodating. Determined to improve himself intellectually, he attended several institutions, including Rhodes School in Manhattan, New York City (1969–1970), Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (1970–1973), and Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio.
He furthered his education at Long Island University, Brooklyn, New York City, and the American Institute of Banking, earning a Master’s degree in Economics. A brilliant scholar, Kabiyesi excelled due to his passion for learning.
A Royal Union
Being a man of high standards, Kabiyesi’s choice of a spouse reflected his values. He found love in Ibiwunmi Joanna, a reserved and brilliant young lady from Okela, Ikare-Akoko. Their love blossomed, and they were married in 1963. Upon ascending the throne of his forefathers, Kabiyesi married another virtuous woman, Olori Iyabo Folashade, from Ishakunmi in Ikare. The harmonious cooperation of his two queens has been a cornerstone of the success of his reign.
A Leader in the Making
As a young prince, Oba Akadiri Momoh exuded optimism, warmth, and charisma. His approachable nature and forthright ideas made him a natural leader. With his sturdy build, handsome countenance, and magnetic charm, he was an embodiment of hope and reassurance.
Upon his return to Nigeria in 1978, Kabiyesi worked with the Federal Inland Revenue Department in Lagos. His integrity, wisdom, and willingness to assist others earned him a reputation as a reliable leader. Rising to the position of Senior Inspector of Taxes in the Federal Ministry of Finance, he served with distinction, remaining above reproach throughout his career.
A Legacy of Humility and Service
Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh has always been a man of contentment, eschewing materialism and focusing instead on his responsibilities. Known as “Oba Onisu’uru” (the patient king), he is deeply committed to peace and development in Ikare-Akoko. His modesty and selflessness have endeared him to his people, who respect and admire his unwavering dedication to their welfare.
During his tenure as Oba, Ikare-Akoko has witnessed remarkable progress. Kabiyesi’s leadership qualities earned him appointments to key positions, including representing the Western Region in the Constituent Assembly during General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration and serving as Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas (1989–1990 and 2019–2021).
In recognition of his contributions, Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh was honoured with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) during the administration of the late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua. He is also the Pioneer Chancellor of Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, and the Vice President-General II of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (SCIA) in Nigeria.
A Life Well Lived
A devout Muslim, Kabiyesi is a man of faith and an avid reader who enjoys farming and spending time with his family. Despite his advanced age, he remains strong, healthy, and stylish. His humility and commitment to fostering peace, eradicating poverty, and promoting love among his people remain unwavering.
Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh attributes his achievements to God, his supportive wives, and the good people of Ikare-Akoko. While his accomplishments are remarkable, Kabiyesi is not one to dwell on them, instead striving to leave a lasting legacy of peace, development, and unity.
