Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has described the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III as an encyclopedia of Yoruba’s traditional history, who had a solution to every problem.
The governor stated this on Sunday, during his condolence visit to the family of the late monarch at the Aafin (Palace), Oyo, noting that though Oba Adeyemi lived long and reigned for 52 years, it was still painful that he had to go at this time.
Governor Makinde added that the late monarch lived a life that had great impact on humanity, adding that the late Kabiyesi’s impact transcended the shores of Oyo State to all parts of the federation.
The governor said the deaths of three foremost traditional rulers, namely the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi Ajagungbade; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji and now the Alaafin of Oyo, were ordained by God and that they all lived a life of impact and left significant marks that would bring progress to the state.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quoted the governor as stating that following Kabiyesi’s demise on Friday night, he had received calls from the Presidency, governors, foremost royal fathers across the country, among others.
He maintained that his government will do everything possible to give Oba Adeyemi a befitting burial.
He said: “No matter how old the Alaafin was, we would not have wanted him to join his ancestors. When he ascended the throne of his forefathers, I was very young. But because of the way Kabiyesi was to us, we would have loved to have him with us forever if it was possible.
“For that, we are sad but we are also happy because Kabiyesi lived long on the throne of his forefathers.
“Secondly, since we heard about the news of his death, throughout yesterday, I received calls from the Presidency and a lot of my colleagues. Sultan of Sokoto and Emir of Kano have called me personally.
“What this means is that Kabiyesi lived a fulfilled and impactful life not only in Oyo State but throughout the federation. That is why those who are mourning with us could also feel the impact. “At this point that we are mourning the passage of Baba, they are also identifying with us.”
