14/07/2026
HRM, Ọba Samuel Omapariola Odimayo Makes History as the First Monarch to Ride a Royal Chariot During the 2026 Ọrẹ Festival ati Ode Irele
History was made in grand style during the 2026 Ọrẹ Festival at Ode Irele as His Royal Majesty, Ọba Samuel Omapariola Odimayo, Olowomuwagun III, Ogbogidigba Urele, the Olofun of Irele Kingdom, etched his name in the annals of history by becoming the first traditional ruler in the entire history of Ikale, Ilaje and Apoi Land to ride on a Royal Chariot (Royal Carriage) during a major cultural festival.
The majestic appearance of the revered monarch on the beautifully decorated Royal Chariot captivated thousands of spectators, cultural enthusiasts and dignitaries from far and near. The unprecedented display of royalty, dignity and cultural splendour elevated the status of the Ode Irele Ọrẹ Festival to an entirely new level and instantly became one of the defining moments in the cultural history of Ondo State.
This historic feat has placed HRM, Ọba Samuel Omapariola Odimayo, a First Class Ọba in Ondo State, in the national spotlight. His bold vision, passion for preserving cultural heritage and determination to modernise traditional institutions while preserving their sacred values have earned him widespread admiration across Nigeria and beyond.
Indeed, this remarkable event will forever be written in gold in the history of Ode Irele Kingdom, Ikale Land, and, without doubt, throughout the entire Ondo South Senatorial District. Future generations will remember the 2026 Ode Irele Ọrẹ Festival as the moment a visionary monarch redefined royal ceremonial traditions.
The rise of Ọba Samuel Omapariola Odimayo to the throne has itself been historic. Having successfully completed all the sacred traditional rites on 30th May 2026, he was presented with the Staff of Office and officially crowned on 13th June 2026, making his ascension the fastest coronation process ever recorded in the history of Ikale Land.
Born in 1962 into the prestigious Orunbemekun Royal Family of Ode Irele, Ondo State, the monarch's life has been marked by academic excellence, exemplary leadership and selfless service. He attended Local Authority Primary School, Ode Irele (1968–1973), United Grammar School, Ode Irele (1973–1978) and Special Six Form College, Ikare-Akoko (1978–1980). He later proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hydrobiology in 1983 and a Master of Science degree in Hydrobiology in 1986.
Long before ascending the throne of his forefathers, Ọba Odimayo distinguished himself as an outstanding community builder and transformational leader. He served as the Pioneer President of Club De Dynamic, Ode Irele (1980–1985) and later became the Pioneer President of the Irele Development Forum (IDF), serving from 2008 to 2024. He also devoted his life to Christian ministry as a Minister and Pastor in The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
His outstanding contributions to society have been recognised with numerous honours, including Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Commerce of Nigeria (CICON), Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON), Leadership Award of Excellence – Olu Omo Irele Kingdom (2013), Award of Achievers – United Grammar School Old Students Association (2013), Shachah Award – Pearl of Kingdom Builders (2014), Merit Award – Gbagada Estate Residents Association (2015) and the United Grammar School Alumni Honour Award (2025).
Beyond his achievements, the monarch is a devoted family man, happily married to Olori Ọláyínká Odimayo, and together they are blessed with wonderful children.
As the reign of HRM, Ọba Samuel Omapariola Odimayo, Olowomuwagun III, Ogbogidigba Urele, continues to unfold, it is becoming increasingly evident that his leadership represents a new era of progress, innovation and cultural renaissance for Irele Kingdom. His historic Royal Chariot procession during the 2026 Ode Irele Ọrẹ Festival will remain an enduring symbol of visionary leadership, royal excellence and an unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Ikale, Ilaje, Apoi and the entire Ondo South Senatorial District.
