Early Life and Education

Alayeluwa Oba Joseph Oladele Olusoji Tella was born on December 8, 1930, in Isaga-Orile, Ogun State.

He began his primary education at Rev. Fry Memorial Anglican School, Isaga-Orile, and continued at Ikereku United School, Ikereku, and Christ Church School, Ilaro, where he completed Modern II in 1947.

Career Journey

He started his teaching career in 1948 and served until 1951, when he left to pursue professional studies in Secretarial Studies.

Oba Tella worked in several notable establishments including:

Diocesan Education Office, Molete, Ibadan

Royal Exchange Assurance, Ibadan

Unity Life and Fire Insurance Company, Ibadan

Faculty of Medicine, University of Ibadan/University College Hospital (UCH)

At UCH, he rose through dedication and excellence to the position of Departmental Secretary Grade I in the Department of Radiology.

He voluntarily retired from public service in 1977 and later joined Unity Life and Fire Insurance Company as the Area Superintendent for Ogun State. He held this position until 1984, after which he ventured into poultry farming.

In recognition of his leadership and commitment to community development, he was installed as the Onisaga of Isaga-Orile on December 18, 1991.

Community Involvement

Oba Tella’s passion for community service dates back to his youthful years in Ibadan, where he frequently visited Isaga-Orile—affectionately referring to it as “my London.”

Before ascending the throne, he served as President of the Isaga Improvement Association, holding various key positions over the years. The Association’s mission remains the upliftment and progress of Isaga-Orile.

For over eight years, he anchored a radio programme on OGBC titled “Omo Ahere Owo” every Friday at 6:00 p.m., using the platform to encourage all sons and daughters of Isaga, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute to the town’s development.

Awards and Recognitions

Community Development Award by Abeokuta North Local Government Council.

Outstanding Contribution to Education Award (2007) by the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), Osun State Polytechnic, Iree Chapter.

Appreciation Award (2005) by the International Association of Lions Clubs (Agege Lions Club, District 404B, Nigeria).

Fellow, Certified Institute of Public Administrators, Ghana.

Featured in “Heroes and Heroines of Yoruba Nation in Nigeria” (Lichfield Communications Ltd., published December 29, 2011) for his distinguished service and contributions to community growth.

Religious Activities

A devout Anglican by birth, Oba Tella has been deeply involved in church growth and development, particularly at Rev. Fry Memorial Anglican Church, Isaga-Orile. He has served as Synod Delegate in the former Egba/Egbado Diocese, and briefly in the Yewa (Egbado) Diocese after its creation.

His religious commitments extend beyond the Anglican Communion. He holds several lifetime and honorary positions, including:

Life Grand Patron, Christian Youth Circle, Christ African Church, Igbore, Abeokuta

Patron, Band of Hope, United Spiritual Church, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta

Life Patron, Victory Society, The Witness Church (Int’l), Abeokuta

Life Patron, Holy Temple of the Praying Minds (Ijo Ibukun Aladura), Quarry Road, Abeokuta

Patron, Bible Society of Nigeria, Yewa North Archdeaconry

Conclusion

Alayeluwa Oba Joseph Oladele Olusoji Tella (Arapapatira II), the Onisaga of Isaga-Orile, stands as a symbol of dedication, service, and faith. Through his leadership, wisdom, and unwavering love for his people, he continues to inspire unity and development within Isaga-Orile and beyond.