Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi Joins Ancestors At 83

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has joined his ancestors.

He was 83.

Palace officials said he died on Friday night at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.

His remains were received at Idi-Igba in Oyo town in the early hours of Saturday.

Traditional rites were said to have begun.

The top monarch ruled Oyo for 52 years.

By tradition, the head of the Oyomesi, Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Ayoola, would take over pending the appointment of a new Alaafin.

Early life
Alaafin Adeyemi was born Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi on October 15, 1938 into the Alowolodu Royal House of the famous Oyo town.

In his younger age, the Alaafin was a lover of boxing. The monarch was a boxer but had to retire early due to his coronation.

Coronation
He became the Alaafin of Oyo in November 18, 1970, succeeding Oba Gbadegesin Ladigbolu I, during the governorship of Colonel Robert Adeyinka Adebayo, after the civil war. He was known popularly as Iku Baba Yeye.

Positions held
During his reign, Oba Adeyemi permanently chaired the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

In 1975, the head of state General Murtala Muhammed included Oba Adeyemi in his entourage to the hajj.

Educational appointment
In 1980, he was appointed as the chancellor of Uthman dan Fodiyo University in Sokoto. He held the position till 1992.

Religious appointment
In 1990, President Ibrahim Babangida appointed him Amir-ul-Hajj in recognition of his commitment to the consolidation of Islam in Nigeria.

Family life
Alaafin was married to Ayaba Abibat Adeyemi, his senior wife. However, he had about twelve junior wives, whom he attended events with.

His junior wives included Ayaba Rahmat Adedayo Adeyemi, Ayaba Mujidat Adeyemi, Ayaba Rukayat Adeyemi, Ayaba Folashade Adeyemi, Ayaba Badirat Ajoke Adeyemi, Ayaba Memunat Omowunmi Adeyemi, Ayaba Omobolanle Adeyemi, Ayaba Moji Adeyemi, Ayaba Anuoluwapo Adeyemi, and Ayaba Damilola Adeyemi.

The Alaafin has numerous children, though the exact number is uncertain.