…Buhari, other prominent Nigerians mourn
The remains of one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional rulers, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, have been buried.
His remains were laid to rest yesterday within the premises of the palace, barely a day after he was certified dead in a hospital in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.
The Alaafin, popularly known as ‘Iku Baba Yeye, was 83 years as of the time his death was announced.
Following the announcement of his demise, Islamic rites were conducted on the body of the Late monarch, signalling the beginning of his final journey home.
Islamic clerics, led by the Chief Imam of Oyo town, were joined by members of the family of the Late traditional ruler and some of his chiefs to offer prayers for the repose of his soul. After the prayers, his body was taken back to the palace where the final burial was held.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the Government and people of Oyo State over the passing of Alaafin, whose reign covered major historic transitions in the country, and witnessed transformations in his domain.
A statement issued by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) yesterday, said the President affirmed that the Alaafin of Oyo’s 52 years of 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.
According to the statement, as a highly revered traditional ruler, President Buhari noted 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.
It said the President shared the grief with the Oyo State Traditional Council, Oba Lamidi’s family, friends, and associates, particularly in sports where he left another footprint and prayed that the Almighty God will receive his soul.
