Implications Of Alaafin’s Death On Oyo Politics

Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III , the Alaafin of Oyo who joined his ancestors on Friday, may not have been a politician but his influence on politicians and politics in Oyo State was huge.

Politicians and non-politicians alike sought his counsel on various issues, especially politics, and he was generous in obliging them.

Not a few politicians in the state and even beyond owe their top positions to his influence.

His exit is therefore bound to have some effects, particularly on Oyo State politics.

*The late Chief Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, former Oyo State Governor believed that he lost his re-election bid in 2011 in part to the support given to his opponent and the eventual winner of the polls, the late Abiola Ajimobi, by Oba Adeyemi.

Besides, one of his sons, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, is serving a second term as member representing Oyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. He had previously served as caretaker chairman, Atiba Local Government, under the direct supervision of his father. One of his daughters also served as commissioner in the administration of the late governor Abiola Ajimobi.

Oyo Politics Will Not Be The Same After Death Of Alaafin

* Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde can now spread his wings wider. There was no love lost between him and Oba Adeyemi despite attempts to hide their differences from the public. Makinde is believed to have picked Senatorial and House of Representatives candidates who were not popular at the Alaafin’s palace. The next election would have been difficult for such candidates in Oyo if the monarch had lived till the election period. Oba Adeyemi’s demise would allow the governor to establish his political dominance in the ancient town.

* Some Oke-Ogun chiefs and monarchs who felt overshadowed by the Alaafin’s influence can now heave a sigh of relief and strategise on how they can continue to be independent of Oyo Alaafin’s influence. As the prescribed authority for most Obas in Oke-Ogun area of the state, Oba Adeyemi insisted on the supremacy of tradition, and this did not go down well with some of the chiefs and Obas.

He reportedly used to direct some Obas to deliver their communities to certain political parties during elections. Such chiefs and Obas will likely take steps to secure some level of freedom from future Alaafins.

Source: The Nation

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG