Two wives of the Alaafin of Oyo, Olori Memunat and Folasade Adeyemi on Thursday dazzled a sizeable audience at the Osun State University, Osogbo with their public display of sacred reverence of their husband, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi.
When the tradition ruler was about to make his speech as the chairman of the launch of the autobiography of the Oloba of Oba-Ile, Oba Adekunle Asamu Oyeyemi, the two delectable wives in red and black lace fabrics, respectfully stepped out, knelt before the Alaafin and recited his panegyrics.
Sharing one microphone during the act, the oloris’ proficient delivery earned them applause of dignitaries who graced the occasion from home and in the diaspora.
Apparently touched by their heavy praise, Oba Adeyemi rose from his seat and appreciated the duo with crisp Naira notes to the admiration of the attentive guests.
The Alaafin of Oyo told The Tabloid.net that such display was a tip of the knowledge with which all his wives are reputed as example of the status of Oyo in Yoruba history, saying that they must demonstrate that they are his wives being the foremost defender of Yoruba custom and tradition.
“They must always stand out when it comes to display of their understanding of our Yoruba custom and tradition. That is the role my eldest wives play to the young wives in the palace. They ensure the young wives are well grounded in the palace etiquette among other things which they must know,” he disclosed.
Oba Adeyemi added that recitation of the panegyrics serves as stimulant to him, especially at public functions where he is required to make extemporaneous speech before a large audience, pointing out that the act also tests retentive memories of his wives.
He showered prayers on Oba Oyeyemi and wished him a long, peaceful reign, also congratulating the people of Oba-Ile for having on the throne such an educated and connected traditional ruler.
The Oloba was ecstatic at the performance of the Alaafin’s wives and expressed his gratitude to Oba Adeyemi for adding such spice to the launch of his autobiography titled ‘Running Against All Oddities: The Oloba’s Tale Of Courage’.
Oba Oyeyemi said the coming of the Alaafin to the event was significant to him in some ways, details of which he promised to reveal at the right time. He was also thankful to other traditional rulers in attendance and members of his 70th birthday organizing committee for their untiring efforts in ensuring the success of the book presentation.
“I cannot thank Baba Alaafin enough for creating time to give me the honour of his presence. It shows that Baba is a royal father who is very strict with his words. Though I had no doubt that he would come, I later realized the traffic of visitors in his palace seeking his attention on daily basis. Yoruba nation shall continue to be united.
Former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Osun State, Oluomo Sunday Akere later presented a portrait to Oba Adeyemi to appreciate his presence at the occasion.
A Nollywood star, Yeye Toyin Adegbola was overwhelmed by the sensational arrival of Oba Adeyemi to the venue of the occasion, describing the moment as historic mindful of the Alaafin’s usually crowded schedule.
Also in attendance at the book launch was former President of Osogbo Progressives Union (OPU), Alhaji Ajadi Badmus who also congratulated Oba Oyeyemi for clocking 70 years and wished him many more years.
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