The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, passed on at 83 years on Friday night at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.
Oba Adeyemi ruled for 52 years before his demise, making him the longest-reigning Alaafin.
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.
He became the Alaafin of Oyo in November 18, 1970, succeeding Oba Gbadegesin Ladigbolu I.
He was known and popularly 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 in Sokoto. He held the position till 1992.
In 1990, President Ibrahim Babangida appointed him Amir-ul-Hajj in recognition of his commitment to the consolidation of Islam in Nigeria.
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 but the exact number is not known.
