Respectful Tributes Pour In for Late Ekiti Monarch, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo
In a demonstration of the profound respect for the traditional institution, the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, paid his respects to the departed Elemure of Emure Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo, who passed away on May 30, 2024, after a brief illness. The late monarch, a retired Police Commissioner and one of the Pelupelu Obas, had reigned for 16 years, bringing unprecedented development to the community.
Speaking during the final outing service, Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, urged the community to prioritize peace and eschew infighting, which can exacerbate the insecurity witnessed in the town during the selection process for a new Oba. The Governor appealed to the community to allow the will of God prevail in the selection process, emphasizing that only God can anoint a king who will make the town great.
Oba Faboro, the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti and Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, described the late monarch as an honest and dependable man who lived a life of sacrifice for his people. He urged the town to begin the process for selecting a new monarch in earnest, warning against placing a premium on money and instead considering honour and honesty in appointing a new monarch.
Professor Williams Adebayo, speaking on behalf of the family, applauded the state government for its solidarity and love during the reign of Oba Adebayo. He said the mammoth crowd that attended the funeral service further substantiated the widespread impression that the late monarch served the town with honour and dignity.
The Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Reverend Felix Ajakaye, delivered a sermon, urging the town to form a united front against kidnappers and killers terrorizing the people along the Emure-Eporo-Emure Ile road. He also implored the town to sustain the good legacies left behind by Oba Adebayo, describing this as the best way to get the requisite consolation after losing such a priceless and distinguishable monarch.
The outpouring of tributes and condolences to the late monarch serves as a testament to his leadership and legacy, which have left a lasting impact on the community. As the town begins the process of selecting a new monarch, it is clear that the legacy of Oba Emmanuel Adebayo will be remembered and honored for generations to come.
