Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the Alaafin of Oyo, died on Friday night at the age of 83.
According to reports, Adeyemi died at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital in Ado, Ekiti.
Before his death, Adeyemi reigned for 52 years, making him the Alaafin with the longest reign.
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We highlight important facts about the fighter who became the longest-reigning Alaafin in this article.
Early Stage in life
On October 15, 1938, Alaafin Adeyemi was born Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi into the Alowolodu Royal House of the famous Oyo town.
The Alaafin was a boxing fan when he was younger. The monarch used to be a boxer, but owing to his coronation, he had to quit early.
He Was Boxer
One notable attribute of the late king was his love for boxing, a ‘skill’ he had dramatically displayed in public. He was said to be a boxer before ascending the throne. and He was always seen training and exercising till his last days on earth
How He Became King
He succeeded Oba Gbadegesin Ladigbolu I as Alaafin of Oyo on November 18, 1970, under the governorship of Colonel Robert Adeyinka Adebayo following the civil war. Iku Baba Yeye was his popular name.
Positions held
Oba Adeyemi was the permanent chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs throughout his tenure.
General Murtala Muhammed, the head of state at the time, joined Oba Adeyemi in his hajj entourage in 1975.
He was chancellor
In 1980, he was appointed as the chancellor of Usman dan Fodiyo University in Sokoto. He held the position till 1992.
Presidential Appointment
In 1990, President Ibrahim Babangida appointed him Amir-ul-Hajj in recognition of his commitment to the consolidation of Islam in Nigeria.
His Wives
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.
Alafin’s Children
The Alaafin has numerous children, though the exact number is uncertain.