The passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022, marked the end of an era for the ancient kingdom of Oyo and the entire Yoruba nation. At 83 years old, the late Alaafin concluded a record-breaking 52-year reign that witnessed Nigeria’s transformation from military rule to democracy, all while preserving the cultural heritage of one of Africa’s most revered monarchies.
As the Yoruba people and Nigerians at large mourn the departed king—affectionately called Iku Baba Yeye (the one who commands death and the father of all)—we examine eight remarkable aspects of his extraordinary life and reign.
1. A Prince Born to Rule
Oba Adeyemi was born on October 15, 1938, into the Alowolodu Royal House, a direct descendant of the House of Oranmiyan, the legendary dynasty that founded the Oyo Empire. His father, Oba Raji Adeniran Adeyemi II, had ruled as Alaafin from 1945 until his deposition in 1954. The young Lamidi’s royal destiny became evident early, though he would not ascend the throne until decades later. Tragically, his mother, Ibironke, passed away when he was still a child, an experience that shaped his resilience and deep appreciation for family ties.
2. Becoming King at 31 Amid Civil War’s Aftermath
In 1970, at just 31 years old, Lamidi Adeyemi became Alaafin III, inheriting a kingdom still reeling from the aftermath of Nigeria’s civil war. His coronation under the military governorship of Colonel Robert Adeyinka Adebayo marked the beginning of what would become the longest reign in Oyo’s modern history. Taking the throne at such a young age, Oba Adeyemi brought energy and vision to the institution, navigating the complex intersection of tradition and Nigeria’s rapidly evolving political landscape.
3. The Boxing Monarch
Long before his coronation, the late Alaafin was an avid boxer—a passion he maintained even as king. His love for the sport was no mere hobby; he often demonstrated his skills publicly, using boxing as a metaphor for leadership. “A good ruler, like a good boxer, must have strategy, endurance, and precision,” he once remarked. This unexpected facet of his personality endeared him to younger generations and showcased his multifaceted character.
4. A Devout Muslim and Hajj Pioneer
In 1975, Oba Adeyemi made history as part of General Murtala Muhammed’s official entourage to Hajj, becoming one of the first traditional rulers to perform the pilgrimage in such a visible capacity. His commitment to Islam earned him further recognition in 1990 when General Ibrahim Babangida appointed him Amir-ul-Hajj, a prestigious role overseeing Nigerian pilgrims to Mecca. Throughout his reign, he balanced his Islamic faith with his duty as a custodian of Yoruba traditions, earning respect across religious divides.
5. Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University
For 12 years (1980–1992), Oba Adeyemi served as Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto, a testament to his intellectual depth and commitment to education. His tenure at the northern institution—rare for a southern monarch—demonstrated his ability to bridge Nigeria’s cultural and regional divides. Under his guidance, the university expanded its academic programs and infrastructure, leaving a lasting impact on higher education in Nigeria.
6. Chairman of Oyo State Council of Obas
Until 2011, Oba Adeyemi held the permanent chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, a position that affirmed his preeminence among Yoruba monarchs. His leadership was marked by efforts to modernize traditional institutions while preserving their cultural essence. Though a controversial rotation policy later introduced shared leadership among the Alaafin, Olubadan of Ibadan, and Soun of Ogbomoso, his influence remained unparalleled.
7. A Family Man with 13 Wives and Over 20 Children
The Alaafin’s personal life was as storied as his reign. He married 13 wives, with Ayaba Abibat Adeyemi as his senior queen. His large family—including over 20 children and numerous grandchildren—became a symbol of continuity for the Oyo dynasty. Despite the demands of kingship, he maintained close bonds with his family, often emphasizing the importance of unity and legacy.
8. A Reign That Shaped Modern Yoruba Identity
Beyond these personal milestones, Oba Adeyemi’s greatest legacy lies in his stewardship of Yoruba culture during a period of rapid modernization. He was a vocal advocate for the preservation of Yoruba language, history, and customs, even as he embraced progress. His court became a hub for scholars, artists, and politicians, ensuring that the Alaafin’s relevance endured in contemporary Nigeria.
A Monarch for the Ages
Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III’s 52-year reign was more than a historical footnote—it was a masterclass in balancing tradition and modernity. From boxing enthusiast to Hajj leader, from university chancellor to father of a dynasty, his life defied simple categorization. As Oyo prepares to crown his successor, the late king’s impact will continue to resonate, a reminder of the enduring power of visionary leadership.
His passing closes a chapter, but his legacy—like the empire he represented—will stand the test of time. Iku Baba Yeye may have joined his ancestors, but his story remains very much alive in the heart of Yorubaland and beyond.
