CHARACTER AND PUBLIC LIFE


Olaniyan was known for his compassion, cultural pride, and generosity. He was a lover of music and festivity—his home resounded daily with the sounds of traditional drums: sekere, gangan, dundun, apinti, and bata. He made it a tradition to provide food for townspeople at his residence—day and night.

He had a deep love for horse riding, and it became a symbol of royal processions during his time. He was always seen riding ahead of Oba Gbeja during state movements, followed by the royal children and warriors.

COLONIAL CONFLICT AND VINDICATION


Following Oba Gbeja's death, political rivalry and envy among chiefs led to a series of false allegations against Olaniyan. He was accused of using a child for ritual purposes and was exiled to Oyo. Investigations by Captain Rosi, the British Ajele, eventually cleared Olaniyan of all charges. The real culprits were found to be child traffickers near Onitsha. The supposed victim's mother later confessed she had been misled by others promising her wealth. Upon full vindication, Ataoja Kolawole, whose daughter had a child (Agboola) for Olaniyan, welcomed him back to Osogbo. His return during Ileya festival marked a celebration across the city.


LATER LIFE AND FAMILY LEGACY

Olaniyan continued to support agriculture, public festivals, and royal tradition, especially during the Osun-Osogbo festival. He oversaw yam selection for rituals and encouraged farming among the youth. He fathered many prominent children, including:

  1. Agboola Olaniyan Adisa
  2. Adeleke Olaniyan Akanji
  3. Babalola Olaniyan
  4. Adegboye Olaniyan Ajani
  5. Oyedemi Olaniyan Aunmoko
  6. Amoo Olaniyan
  7. Olagoke Olaniyan Akangbe
  8. Oyegoke Olaniyan Akano
  9. Oyedele Olaniyan Ayinla
  10. Owoade Olaniyan Isola
  11. Adebanke Olaniyan
  12. Samatu Olaniyan
  13. Okunola Olaniyan
  14. Oyekanle Olaniyan
  15. Oyekolan Olaniyan
  16. Adebayo Olaniyan
  17. Babatunde Olaniyan
  18. Gbayiola Olaniyan
  19. Oyekan Olaniyan
  20. Olauwoo Olaniyan

 

His children built concrete market stalls (petesi) at Oja-Oba Osogbo and engaged in commerce, agriculture, and civic leadership. They remained united and loyal to one another after his passing.

CONCLUSION

Chief Olaniyan Aremu Olawoore stands as a symbol of royal dignity, public service, and resilience. His legacy shaped the growth of modern Osogbo and set a foundation for generations after him. He passed away in 1925, but his name remains written in the memory of the city he served faithfully.

Written in Yoruba by his son, Adegboye Olaniyan, and translated into English by his grandchild, Moshood Olaniyan.