From Olubunmi Osoteku, Ibadan
Following the demise of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, plans are already in top gear for the late monarch to be buried on Saturday.
According to a palace source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the late Alaafin’s remains would be committed to mother earth by 4pm on Saturday, April 23rd, 2022.
The late monarch’s remains would be taken to Baara, the final resting place of all the Alaafins of Oyo who have joined their ancestors.
The source also confirmed that work has started immediately at Baara in preparation for the final burial of the late monarch.
“It is true Baara is being prepared for the final burial of the late Iku Baba Yeye because that’s the final resting place of all his predecessors.
“Mind you, Baara is not just the final resting place of all the Alaafins, it is also a place where the Alaafin goes to whenever there is need to commune with his ancestors to seek for guidance and or directions.” the source said.
Similarly, business activities have, on Saturday, paralyzed in Oyo Town as people of the ancient city are mourning the demise of the late foremost monarch who joined his ancestors in the late hours of Friday, at the Afe Babalola Teaching Hospital, after a brief illness.
Shops and businesses around the Alaafin’s palace have been shut down, while people are gathered in their hundreds to mourn the late monarch and some areas close to the palace like Aremo, Ile Asumo, Atigisi, Asipa, Obalolu, and Lagondoko, to mention but a few are deserted.
The Chief Imam of Oyo Town, Imam Mosud Ajokidero and his team are currently in a meeting with the Oyo Mesi over burial plans for the late monarch.
Dignitaries have started arriving Oyo Town to commiserate with the palace and the Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, who is the chief mourner.
Olusola Akintonde
