The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman, National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria (NTRCN), Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad III has described as rude shock the passing of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who returned to his Creator, Allah, on the midnight Friday April 22, 2022.
Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, who is also the President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) reacted to the news on Saturday when, upon his return from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he had travelled for Umrah, the lesser hajj.
In a press statement issued on Saturday on his behalf by Alhaji Sa’idu Maccido, Danburam Sokoto, Secretary to the Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Nigeria’s most prominent monarch said the late Alaafin of Oyo was a personal friend, noting that he will miss him forever.
The Sultan, who arrived Nigeria via Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) Kano, called the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde on Saturday afternoon to pay his quick condolence ahead of a statement detailing his feelings about the death of the Alaafin.
“I just got back from Saudi Arabia when I heard about the demise of the fine monarch, even in Kano. I have talked to the governor in condolence to the family, the governor, and the people of Oyo State over the demise of the excellent monarch. His reign was remarkable. We would remember him for his contributions, especially when he was here as Chancellor of the Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto. Also we will remember him as a personal friend,” the Sultan said.
