His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, the Alaafin of Oyo, is indisputably a traditional ruler with distinction.
Fifty years after he ascended the throne of his forebears, Alaafin has brought elegance to the traditional institution, not only in Oyo but across the entire Yorubaland. It goes without saying; that the story of the Yoruba people’ is incomplete if you leave out the Iku Baba Yeye, the Alase Orisa as he is popularly called.
Recently, the Akosin of Yorubaland, Chief Habeeb Okunola, a business magnate took out time to felicitate and extol the virtue of His Imperial Majesty who clocks 84 on October 15, 2021.
The Akosin of Yorubaland, Chief Habeeb Okunola stated: “Without mincing words, not only does the Alaafin impress the knowledgeable audience with his mastery of colonial history. His oratory usually attracts rounds of applause and standing ovations that leaves the audience spellbound and wondering if he is indeed a Monarch or a visiting professor of African History.
He acknowledged that Alaafin is a superb storyteller and incorrigible performer, “When Oba Adeyemi speaks in Yoruba or English, you will marvel at his cerebration and intellection.
“Iku Baba Yeye is a repertoire of history and knowledge. Despite the fact that he is 82, when he begins to talk about historical events both local and international, with explicit reference to date, time and statistics, then you wonder how he remembers all these things”.
“Baba mi Atanda is a beauty to behold when he steps into his dancing shoes. He dances rhythmically to traditional music, as his dance steps go in tandem with the tunes of the music, leaving bystanders mesmerised.
“The contributions of Oba Adeyemi to the preservation and promotion of the Yoruba culture cannot be overemphasised. His effort toward the unity and progress of the Yoruba as well as promotion of the traditional institution is unquantifiable”.
Akosin who described the revered Monarch as a selfless and detribalized traditional ruler prayed that the almighty grant the Paramount Ruler to sustain his patriotic efforts aimed at promoting peace and unity across the country, and wished him long life and wisdom as he steers the affairs of the ancient Oyo kingdom.
“I join the people of Oyo state and in particular, Oyo kingdom in celebrating His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III as he clocks 84 years on the iconic stool of his forebears.
“Over the last fifty years, Alaafin has sustained his goodwill and pedigree, given his extraordinary leadership style and passion for the welfare of his subjects.
“As one of the longest-reigning royal fathers in Nigeria, and current Chancellor of four reputable Universities both in Nigeria and overseas, the wise counsel of Oba Adeyemi on national issues cannot be underestimated. He is a strong advocate of peace and unity.
“He is a compassionate and unrelenting philanthropist and, above all, a life coach and mentor to many accomplished men and women from various walks of life,” he said.
In His closing remarks, the Akosin of Yorubaland concluded thus.
“Happy birthday to my dearest Father
One who I proudly call my mentor and guiding light.
My admiration for His Imperial Majesty knows no bounds
“A phenomenal Ruler,
Your special day is the perfect opportunity for me to thank you for inspiring and supporting me through this passage of life as wonderfully as you do. I feel truly blessed to be guided by a phenomenal King and Leader such as you.
“A magnificent Ruler and royal guide.
Today marks the birthday of a truly redoubtable Monarch, who I am fortunate enough to have accompanying me on my path and guiding me so diligently.
‘”Baba mi Atanda, Omo Ibironke, Omo Iku, Omo Arun, Omo Ofo, Omo Adanu I celeberate you.
“Sekere loba njo! Sekere loba njo! Baba mi Adeyemi edide ke jo sekere! Sekere loba njo.
“In glory and majesty, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Imperial Majesty on this auspicious occasion of his birthday. I pray that God will, continue to bestow His precious blessings upon Your Majesty and all the Yoruba people” – Chief Habeeb Okunola – Akosin of Yorubaland .
