Oluwatosin Enesi
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, and the late Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo played critical roles in the selection of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III as the Alaafin of Oyo.
Obasanjo shared this historical account during his remarks as Chairman of the Requiem Symposium held in honour of Dr. Olunloyo, who served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under the military administration of General Adeyinka Adebayo in the old Western State.
The event featured a series of scholarly presentations celebrating Olunloyo’s legacy in governance, journalism, education, and music. Notable speakers included Prof. Toyin Falola, Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, Prof. Biyi Afonja, Prof. Olusoji Ofi, Mr. Dapo Ogunwusi, and Dr. Tolu Owoaje, among others.
Describing Olunloyo as “a genius and an exceptionally intelligent human being,” Obasanjo said his life straddled brilliance, politics, and a touch of “rascality.” He recalled a pivotal moment in 1965, when, as Area Commander in Ibadan, he worked closely with Olunloyo during a tense succession crisis in Oyo.
Obasanjo recounted how the kingmakers had chosen the son of the exiled former Alaafin — a decision that stirred controversy, especially given that the exile was ordered by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Olunloyo, then caught in the political dilemma, sought Obasanjo’s counsel.
“I told him to visit the Ooni of Ife,” Obasanjo said. “And the Ooni, Baba Aderemi, told him clearly: ‘Let the children of those who have ruled continue. They are the ones who won’t spoil the stool.’ That guidance proved decisive.”
Still uncertain, Olunloyo was further advised to meet Chief D.S. Adegbenro, a close ally of Awolowo. By the time Chief Adegbenro reached out to Awolowo, the Ooni had already intervened. This alignment of influential voices paved the way for Lamidi Adeyemi — the son of the deposed Alaafin — to ascend the throne, with the blessing of Awolowo himself.
Obasanjo lauded Olunloyo’s tact and commitment in navigating the sensitive issue, crediting him with handling the assignment “the way it needed to be achieved.”
The symposium, which drew dignitaries from across the country, also had in attendance representatives of the Olubadan of Ibadanland and notable figures such as Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, Prof. Bolanle Awe, Dr. Kolade Mosuro, Prof. Gabriel Ogunmola, and Mr. Wale Babalakin (SAN).
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