The paramount ruler of Oke Ogun, Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi, expressed shock at the news of Oba Adéyemí’s death.
The death of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III has been described as a colossal loss not just to Yoruba land but also to Nigeria as a whole.
The foremost traditional ruler died last Friday night at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital at 83.
Oba Khalid stated that Oyo State, Yoruba race and entire nation has lost a great monarch, a patriot Yoruba ruler with rich knowledge and understanding of Yoruba culture.
He also hinted of his closeness to Oba Adéyemí as personal beinb vice chairman of Oyo state traditional council.
Olabisi said: “Kabiyesi’s advice and guidance were always golden and helpful”, Oba Khalid said in a statement.
“Kabiyesi’s departure is a huge loss not only to Oyo State, to which he committed 52 years of his life as the Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, but also to Nigeria and the entire Yoruba race.
“Oba Adeyemi was our last man standing in the rank of most eminent royal fathers with long years of leadership.
“He became a golden king, an institution and an authority rolled into one by virtue of his immense experience, wisdom and understanding of Yoruba history, royalty and politics.
“Oba Adeyemi not only elevated the Alaafin throne with his knowledge and wisdom, he became a worthy exemplar for royal leadership in Africa and brought glory to Oyo State and Nigeria. Kabiyesi never spared anything in his strive to make Oyo State greater and to bring about the Nigeria of everyone’s collective dream.
Adeyemi, who served as the permanent chairperson of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, was reportedly sick and was scheduled to be flown abroad for treatment before he joined his ancestors last Friday.
