Most of the markets in the ancient city of Oyo are not opened owing to the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the longest-reigning Alaafin.
This was just as the remains of the monarch are being prepared for burial, according to Islamic rites.
The Islamic clerics, led by the Chief Imam of Oyoland, Sheikh Mos’ud Ajokidero, and those from the Sarumi family, moved bathing materials into the Aganju forecourt where the body is to undergo an Islamic ritual bath.
His first son, Barr. Babatunde Adeyemi and some of his siblings are also inside the large hall.
Bishop Ayo Ladigbolu, Oba Adeyemi’s closest ally, was seen discussing and giving instructions together with the Oyomesi, led by the Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Ayoola, who takes charge as the head of the ancient town till another Alaafin is installed.
According to an Oyo Prince, the late Alaafin is to be buried according to Islamic rites, in Bara, a 5-minute drive from the palace. The name Bara and the culture of burying the Aláàfin at Bara started in Ọ̀yo Igboho, where four Alaafin reigned.
Traditional worshippers, including adherents of Sango and Osun, were seen in large numbers at the palace. This was just as honeybees are having a field day, flying around, an indication that it was the honeybee calabash that the monarch picked during his installation, 52 years ago.
Youths and women have also besieged the palace, while the wives and princesses were inside their various compounds. Security men are having a hectic time controlling the surging crowd.
