OLU IMASAYI, ALAYELUWA OBA (Dr.) LUKMAN KUOYE Ph.d Hosts Grand Memorial For Late Father
……Three months special outing prayer draws royal Fathers, political leaders, Senator Yayi , others to Imasayi.
BY ADERONKE FAKEYE.
It was a royal and memorable occasion in Imasayi, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, as the Olu of Imasayi, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Lukman Kuoye, and his siblings held a three-month special outing prayer in honour of their late father, Alhaji (Prince) Abdul Rafiu Akanbi Kuoye. Fondly called Baba Olopa, the revered centenarian passed on to eternal glory on May 24, 2025, at the blessed age of 100.
The grand memorial prayer, which took place at Oluaso High School field in Imasayi was graced by top Islamic clerics, led by the Chief Imam of Yewa and other prominent Imams across Ogun State, who offered Firdau prayers for the repose of the late patriarch’s soul.
The event also attracted an impressive assembly of traditional rulers. At the forefront was the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewa Land, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, who led more than twenty royal fathers in solidarity with the Kuoye family. The revered monarchs attended both the prayer session and the colourful reception that followed.
Notable dignitaries in attendance included the Iyalode of Yewa Land, the Iyaloja and babaloja of Ado odo, philanthropist Alhaji Egungbohun,popularly known as IBD Dende and several other illustrious sons and daughters of Yewa.
The highpoint of the gathering was the arrival of distinguished senator and political leader, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), who, despite his tight schedule, made time to honour the Olu of Imasayi. In his remarks, Senator Adeola extolled Oba Kuoye’s leadership and unwavering support:
“I am so happy to be here today despite my busy schedule. Kabiyesi has been a loyal supporter of the Yayi Movement long before ascending the throne of Imasayi, and he remains steadfast to this day. I thank you, Kabiesi, and the entire people of Imasayi. I can see your overwhelming support, and I assure you that greater things are still to come for Imasayi and Yewaland in general. May the soul of Baba Kuoye continue to rest in perfect peace.”
The memorial celebration reached its climax with a lively reception filled with sumptuous meals, assorted drinks, and thrilling live music courtesy of Fuji maestro Sule Alao Malaika. Guests and well-wishers enjoyed a convivial atmosphere, while various media outlets provided full coverage of the occasion.
The outing prayer for Alhaji (Prince) Abdul Rafiu Akanbi Kuoye thus turned into a historic convergence of faith, royalty, politics, and culture—a fitting tribute to a respected patriarch whose legacy lives on through his children and community.
