Alaafin: How Oyo lost a colossus, PTS boss, Adeleke
From Ogundele Olanrewaju
The Chairman Pacesetter Transport service, Hon. Dare Adeleke has described the demise of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi lll as a colossal loss to Oyo state, Nigeria and entire Yoruba race.
Dare Adeleke who described Oba Adeyemi’s death as huge loss, noting that he was not only a foremost character in the Nigerian polity but also a first class Oba, a formidable figure and beloved father to all citizens of the state and Yoruba’s all over the world.
He further described Oba Adeyemi as a thorough custodian of the throne of his forefathers, who lived an examplary, healthy life such that brought undeniable pride to the palace.
Adeleke further described the late monarch ada staunch progenitor of the Yoruba culture which he exported far and beyond Nigeria.
The statement read : “It is with a heavy heart, I received the news that our great father, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, the Alafin of Oyo, has joined his ancestors.
Oba Adeyemi III was not only a foremost character in the Nigerian polity but also a 1st class Oba, a formidable figure and a beloved father to all citizens of Oyo State and Yorubas all over the world.
“A thorough custodian of the throne of his forefathers, Oba Adeyemi lived an exemplary, healthy life such that he brought undeniable pride to the Palace.
“He wore his crown with wisdom, grace, flamboyance and penache. He was indeed a staunch progenitor of the Yoruba culture which he exported far and beyond Nigeria.
“Having ascended the throne at the young age of 31, the young sportsman whose love for boxing is legendary, lived a long and fruitful life impacting on both those who ate from his large table and thousands who came from far and wide to benefit from his wisdom.
So wise a king he was that his essence attracted presidents, leaders, kings and Queens as well as the common people.
“As a young king, it is on record that he was selected by the then youthful head of state, General Murtala Muhammed to accompany his on Hajj in 1975.
“His devotion to the Muslim faith was faultless. He held his faith with honour and total dedication. In appointed and was appointed Amir-ul-Hajj by ex – President, General Ibrahim Babangida, in 1990, in recognition of his commitment to the consolidation of Islam in Nigeria.
“Indeed, Oba Adeyemi has left solid footprints on the sands of time.
“I wish to commensurate with the entire Oyo people and the family of the great Oba. We can never forget him”.
