Tribute to Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi by Fatai Adisa

Ò n r'Òyó ò ń kánjú;

Alaafin o re'bìkan ...

“Forever and forever farewell, Cassius.

If we do meet again, why, we shall smile.

If not, why then this parting was well made.” (Julius Caesar, Act5, Scene 1).

This picture appears so powerful to me. A picture that speaks more than a thousand words. Like, goodbye, Man. Au revoir, materials. I am transiting to the great beyond.

When you are set to leave that big premises of the University of Ilorin, at the main gate of the school, you would find an inscription that reads, “ It is not bye-bye. But see you again”, that is for humans leaving the place for other places on Earth. But for Death, it is always bye forever. 

Ian Fleming was right when he said, "Death is forever. But so are diamonds.” Goodbye Oba Adeyemi. The king is gone. Until we meet again, your drum beats on.

May God grant the departed soul a restful repose.

#ADiSA