The recent death of the Alaafin of Oyo, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111, evoked sweet memories of my encounter with the famous monarch.
Alaafin was one of the most controversial, colourful, and famous Yoruba Kings; a proud custodian of the fascinating culture of the descendants of O’odua, he was in a class by himself.
Mainly because of the history of the great Oyo Empire, Oba Adeyemi always considered himself the No 1 traditional ruler in Yorubaland. This assertion brought him on constant collision courses with other equally assertive Obas like the late Ooni of Ife, Arole O’odua, Oba Okunade Sijuade Olubuse 11.
Oba Olubuse felt, as the occupier of the throne of O’odua, he was superior to other Yoruba Kings.
The battle for superiority lasted till the death of the flamboyant O’oni Olubuse.
In the midst of all of his many controversies about his political views, his wives,18 of them at the time of his demise, Oba Adeyemi was approached by associates of Highlife musician, Oliver de Coque, when he was to be Crowned Highlife music King in the late’80s.
Fem Ray Ifeme, one of Oliver’s managers/advisers handled the contact with the Alaafin. He got the monarch to agree to crown Oliver de Coque Highlife King in Ibadan, at the Premier hotel.
The date was set and, after meticulous preparations, Alaafin and his large entourage arrived at the venue.
It was a very colourful ceremony, and typical of the King, after his famous Yoruba dance steps, he stepped forward and was Crowned Oliver de Coque Highlife King. It was a memorable event that enjoyed wide media coverage.
Unfortunately, Oliver died some years ago of a heart-related condition. If he were alive at this time, he would have honoured the departed monarch with an album.
Kabiesi,Iku Baba Yeye.
Oliver de Coque owed the Alaafin the big favour of making him the King of Highlife music at a time when many of his rivals were laying claims to the honour.
After he was Crowned, Oliver became more successful as he waxed many hit albums that testified to his amazing talent.
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