Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shed light on the behind-the-scenes events that led to the selection of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, in 1970.
Speaking on Wednesday as chairman of the requiem symposium in honour of the late Omololu Olunloyo, Obasanjo recounted the intense deliberations that took place during the selection process. Olunloyo, who was then the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under the military administration of Adeyinka Adebayo, played a key role in the decision.
Describing Olunloyo as “a genius and an exceptionally intelligent man,” Obasanjo recalled the political dilemma faced by the Western State government when the kingmakers nominated Lamidi Adeyemi—the son of the deposed Alaafin sent into exile by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“Victor (Olunloyo) came to my office visibly troubled, holding a piece of paper,” Obasanjo said. “He confided that the kingmakers had selected the son of the exiled Alaafin, and he wasn’t sure what to do.”
Obasanjo advised him to seek guidance from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, regarded as one of the most respected traditional rulers of the time.
“When Olunloyo consulted the Ooni, Baba told him: ‘Let the children of those who have sat on the throne return there. They are the ones who will not desecrate it. The rest is in the hands of God.’”
Still seeking assurance, Olunloyo also approached political leaders D.S. Adegbenro and Chief Obafemi Awolowo for their blessing—securing the crucial support needed for Lamidi Adeyemi’s eventual ascension to the throne.
With the military government of David Jemibewon in power, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was formally installed as Alaafin of Oyo in 1970. He would go on to reign for over five decades until his passing on April 22, 2022.
Obasanjo praised Olunloyo’s wisdom and diligence in handling the delicate matter, saying his efforts ensured a smooth transition that honoured tradition and political realities.
