The Ondo Kingdom has been thrown into mourning following the death of its Traditional Prime Minister, High Chief Simeon Oguntimehin, a former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, who passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, at the age of 91.
In a statement issued on Friday by the family through his daughter, Mrs. Omonike Omonubi, his passing was described as a peaceful transition after a life of service to his community, profession, and country.
โWith gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our father, High Chief (Sir) Simeon Olusola Oguntimehin, who transitioned peacefully on March 30, 2026, at the age of 91,โ the family said.
Until his death, Oguntimehin held the revered title of Lisa and Traditional Prime Minister of the Ondo Kingdom, where he served as a key adviser within the traditional council and played a central role in preserving the customs and traditions of the ancient town.
As Lisa Fiwagboye, he was widely regarded as a pillar of leadership in the kingdom, known for his wisdom, diplomacy, and commitment to traditional governance.
โHe lived a fulfilled life marked by integrity, humility, and unwavering dedication to both community and nation,โ the family added.
Beyond his traditional responsibilities, Oguntimehin was a distinguished professional in Nigeriaโs financial sector and public service.
He served as President of ICAN between 1995 and 1996, where he was credited with strengthening professional ethics and advancing reforms within the accounting profession.
โHe was a strong advocate of professional excellence and ethical standards in the accounting profession,โ a statement attributed to ICAN sources noted.
He also served as a board member of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission from 2007 to 2011, contributing to efforts aimed at improving transparency and accountability in public institutions.
In 1978, shortly after the creation of Ondo State, he made history as the first Chairman of the State Public Accounts Committee, laying the groundwork for financial oversight and fiscal discipline.
A close associate described him as โa bridge between tradition and modern governance,โ adding that โhis counsel was always sought on matters of public accountability and leadership.โ
He was a recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger and also held the titles of Justice of the Peace and Knight of St. Christopher.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, traditional rulers, and professional bodies, who described him as a man of rare integrity and service.
โNigeria has lost a statesman who combined professional excellence with traditional leadership,โ one tribute read.
The family expressed appreciation for the outpouring of condolences from across the country.
Funeral arrangements, according to the family, will be announced in due course.
FOLLOW US ON:
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
PINTEREST
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
LINKEDIN
