Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has described the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, as an encyclopedia of Yoruba’s traditional history, who had a solution to every problem.
The governor who 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.
He said that the late monarch lived a life that had great impact on humanity, stating that the late Kabiyesi’s impact transcended the shores of Oyo State to all parts of the federation.
In his words: “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.”
“For all of us in Oyo State, it is a difficult period and what we need more is prayers. All the good things Baba wished to come to pass, may God give us the wisdom to actualise them. And I want to promise everybody that, as a government, we will do everything possible to give him a befitting burial rite.”
The governor appealed to the Oyomesi, who are saddled with the responsibility of choosing the next Alaafin not to allow a vacuum for too long, stressing that his government would ensure that the wishes of the late Alaafin comes to pass.
