His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, Odundun IV, Aragbiji of Iragbiji, is a distinguished traditional monarch in Nigeria. Born on October 29, 1962, into the Ajibode Ruling House in Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government, Osun State, he ascended to the throne as the 15th Aragbiji of Iragbiji in 2008.
Oba Abdur-Rasheed’s early life was characterised by a strong commitment to education. He began his primary education at the Local Authority Primary School, Poika Luku, Ife South Local Government, and completed it at the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School, Kawo, Kaduna, in 1975. He then returned to his hometown for his secondary education at Oke-Iragbiji Grammar School, graduating in 1980.
In 1983, he pursued higher education at Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, studying History Education and graduating in 1987. His academic journey continued at the University of Ilorin, where he earned a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) in 1994. Driven by his passion for education, he enrolled in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to study Law in 2006, although royal duties prevented him from completing the programme.
Before his royal ascension, Oba Abdur-Rasheed had a distinguished career with the Local Government Service Commission, beginning in Oyo State in 1989 and transitioning to Osun State after its creation in 1991. He rose to the position of Director of Personnel Management before leaving for the throne. His ascension brought a new era of innovation and growth to Iragbiji.
Under his leadership, Iragbiji has seen substantial development, particularly in infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment. Oba Abdur-Rasheed has actively promoted cultural heritage, ensuring the preservation of the kingdom’s rich history and customs.
Recognised beyond Osun State, Oba Abdur-Rasheed has received numerous awards, including Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (FCIPM), Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Management (FCIM), and Fellowship of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (FAFUED). He is also a Fellow of the Osun State College of Technology (OSCOTECH) and a Member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
In June 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), a role celebrated by his subjects and Nigerians at large for his qualifications and commitment.
As Deputy Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas and a First Class Monarch, Oba Abdur-Rasheed plays a crucial role in fostering unity among traditional rulers in the State. His wisdom and counsel are highly valued.
Known for his humility and accessibility, he is beloved by his subjects, who appreciate his dedication to their welfare. His palace remains open to all seeking guidance and support.
In his personal life, Oba Abdur-Rasheed is a devoted husband and father. He enjoys reading, traveling, and community service. His dedication to public service and traditional leadership sets a shining example for future generations. An excellent public speaker, he maintains a wide network of national and international connections.
A committed humanitarian, Oba Olabomi has earned numerous awards, including recognition from the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for sponsoring eye treatments and surgeries for about 3,000 subjects between 2009 and 2013 under the global Vision 2020 project.
His Royal Majesty Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV, is a visionary leader and a champion of community development. His reign has brought significant progress to Iragbiji, with his wisdom and counsel being highly esteemed throughout Osun State and beyond.