Alaafin Adeyemi

By Erhirhie Julius Otadafe

The Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike, J.P has lent his voice to join other Nigerians to pay tribute to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III who joined his ancestors on Friday night describing him as one of the greatest monarch who towed the path of unity and one Nigeria in his lifetime.

Late Alaafin of Oyo according to a statement by Chief Ejidike was a detribalised king who used his position to ensure peace and love among all the tribes in Nigeria even as he accepted the revered appointment as Chancellor of Uthman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto as well as University of Maiduguri a position he occupied before his demise.

The sports philanthropist, Ejidike recalled his visit to the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in his palace where he had a commitment to stage a befitting championship in his honour to further unearth budding talents in Oyo State but death has dealt a big blow as Alaafin never lived to witness the game.

“What attracted me to Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III was his spirit of sportsmanship; a keen sportsman who chose boxing and maintained his physical fitness till death. Even at 82 years, he was bouncing and strong. He never discriminated against any tribe or religion. He was a true and patriotic Nigerian. As one of the foresmost monarch in the country, he used his exalted stool to stabilize the nation. I have great respect for his power of intellect particularly his sound knowledge of history”, Ejidike recalled.

He urged the government at various levels to give more attention to the traditional institutions as the monarchs are the custodians of our traditions, customs and culture which are morally inclined.

Ejidike condoled Oyo State government and people of Oyo State; and, natives of the ancient town of Oyo as he prayed God to give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.