President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with the Government and people of Oyo State over the passing of Alaafin of Oyo, Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, 83, whose reign covered major historic transitions in the country, and witnessed transformations in his domain.
The President affirms that the Alaafin of Oyo’s 52 years rule was remarkable in many ways, most significant was the emphasis he placed on human development, thereby encouraging learning as a culture and formal education as a necessity while promoting values of peace and stability.
As a highly revered traditional ruler, President Buhari notes the late monarch’s numerous participations in national meetings and conferences to shape the future of the country, and the living words of wisdom he shared at every opportunity on unity and people-focused governance.
The President shares the grief with the Oyo State Traditional Council, Oba Lamidi’s family, friends, and associates, particularly in sports where he left another footprint.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will receive his soul.
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has described the death of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, as a great loss for Nigeria and Africa at large.
Abubakar in a statement by his Special Adviser, Paul Ibe, on Saturday in Abuja, said that the late Oba Adeyemi was a worthy ambassador of Yoruba culture and royal elegance.
The former vice president recalled that his last encounter with Oba Adeyemi was during the coronation of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Lekan Balogun in Ibadan.
“I admired the royal splendour of Oba Adeyemi and the fact that he remained the longest serving Alaafin means that Oyo and indeed Nigerians will not forget his reign,” he said.
Abubakar, who said that he was deeply touched by the news of Oba Adeyemi’s demise, commisserates with his immediate family, Gov. Seyi Makinde, the government and the people of Oyo State.
He prayed Almighty Allah to grant the soul of the late king a gentle repose and to give his immediate family and the people of Oyo Kingdom the fortitude to bear the loss.(
Also, former Governor of Lagos State, Sen. Bola Tinubu, has described the death of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, as an auspicious era in the ancient Oyo Kingdom, the Yoruba and the entirety of the black race.
Tinubu in a condolence message on Saturday in Lagos, said that the late Oba Adeyemi was a strong pillar of the arts, culture and tradition.
He said: “Kabiyesi took upon himself the task of promoting Nigerian arts and culture for which he received many ambassadorial awards in Nigeria and beyond.
“In recognition of his important contributions to peace, religious harmony and stability in Nigeria, the nation gifted him the high honour of Commander of the Federal Republic.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential hopeful expressed sadness at the passing of the late Oba adding that with his transition, a big Iroko had fallen.
Tinubu recalled that his last encounter with Oba Adeyemi was during his last visit to his palace sometime in February to seek his prayers and blessings for his presidential ambition.
“l had an abiding personal relationship with Alaafin whom I deeply respected. He was a Mentor, leader and father figure.
” I visited Kabiyesi in February in Oyo to seek his prayers and blessings which he graciously gave, little did I know it was the last time we would see each other face to face,” he said
Tinubu noted that Alaafin was one of the most influential, greatly respected traditional rulers in Yorubaland, Nigeria and indeed Africa and beyond.
“Alaafin fostered harmony and brought prosperity and development to the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
“He was loved by his people. Wisely ruling on the throne for 52 years, he became the longest reigning Alaafin that ever ruled Oyo Kingdom.
“An elder-statesman and patriot, Alaafin Adeyemi was bold and courageous. He spoke truth to power.
“His interventions in national affairs helped the nation navigate difficult moments and helped usher a more just society.
“He played vital roles in the struggle for democracy, working assiduously towards the establishment of our democracy,” he said
The former governor who said that he was deeply touched by the demise of Oba Adeyemi commisserates with his immediate family, the Oyomesi, the chiefs, Gov. Seyi Makinde, the government and the people of Oyo kingdom.
“The black race has lost a titan who will be sorely missed.
“I pray that his family, Oyo Kingdom, the Yoruba race and indeed all Nigerians find consolation and strength in that we must now dedicate ourselves to live up to the ideals for which Alaafin stood,” Tinubu said.
