Adieu Kabiyesi Alara: A man of great character, by Raheem Akingbolu
Perhaps because of my personal relationship with our late Kabiyesi, Oba Adegoke Olu-Adeyemi, the Alara of Aramoko Ekiti, it has been extremely tough for me to script anything down since his exit.
Today, we mourn, we reflect and we celebrate.
As a testament to his enduring legacy, Oba Adeyemi’s impact on the community will forever be cherished.
Alara lived and died as a man of great character. He excelled as an administrator and excelled as a community leader.
Growing up, our parents used to use Oba Adeyemi, then a senior civil servant in the old Ondo State, as a reference point whenever they wanted to advise us on the importance of education.
From an humble background, Alara moved up the ladder and reached the top of his career and became Permanent Secretary in various ministries in the old Ondo State. Prior to that time, he had served as a Sole Administrator. All these before he ascended the throne in 2009.
As a traditional ruler, he served as Chancellor of Ekiti State University.
Key Highlights of His Majesty’s Life and Reign:
- Early Life and Education: Born on December 4, 1942, in Aramoko Ekiti, Oba Adeyemi attended St. Anne’s Catholic Primary School and St. Finbarr’s Secondary Modern School, Efon Alaye. He bagged his first degree at the University of Lagos in the early 70s and a master degree at the University of Manchester.
Royal Heritage: As the Alara of Aramoko Ekiti, Oba Adeyemi was a respected figure in Ekiti State, known for his commitment to the development and well-being of his kingdom.
Oba Adeyemi made numerous significant contributions to the Aramoko Ekiti community throughout his reign. Here are some key aspects:
- Leadership and Governance: As the Alara of Aramoko Ekiti, he provided strong leadership that fostered community cohesion and development.
- Education Advocacy: His commitment to education was evident during his tenure as Chancellor of Ekiti State University. He supported initiatives to enhance educational standards and access for local students.
- Community Development: Oba Adeyemi was dedicated to the socio-economic development of his kingdom, advocating for projects that improved infrastructure, health, and welfare services.
- Cultural Preservation: He worked to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Aramoko Ekiti, encouraging festivals, traditions, and community events that strengthened cultural identity.
- Conflict Resolution: Known for his wisdom, he played a vital role in resolving conflicts within the community, fostering peace and unity among his people.
- Youth Empowerment: He emphasized the importance of youth development, supporting programs and initiatives aimed at empowering the younger generation.
His legacy will continue to inspire future leaders and community members in Aramoko Ekiti.
