Life and times of late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Adeyemi

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi, who died on Friday night, was born on October 15, 1938 into the Alowolodu Royal House of the famous Oyo town.

The Alaafin was a lover of boxing at his younger age. He was a boxer but had to retire early due to his coronation.

He was crowned the Alaafin on November 18, 1970, succeeding Oba Gbadegesin Ladigbolu I, during the time of Colonel Robert Adeyinka Adebayo as governor, after the civil war. He was fondly called Iku Baba Yeye.

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.

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

In 1990, President Ibrahim Babangida appointed him Amir-ul-Hajj.

Alaafin was married to Ayaba Abibat Adeyemi, his senior wife. However, he had about 12 junior wives, who he took to social events.

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