Oba Adefunmi I

We join the immense chorus of mourners lamenting the sad loss of Oba Adefunmi I of Oyotunji African Village who passed away on the 11th of February. Seije, as he was known to many of us from the early days in New York, was instrumental in introducing many of our African American aburo to the Lukumí-Yoruba religion. His unrelenting mission that began in the Yoruba Temple in Harlem and eventually evolved into the Oyotunjí Village is a strong example of the tenacity of this admirable man who had a dream and worked hard to fulfill it. His legacy is immense, though walking in his shoes may not be an easy task for those that follow, as he was unique and inimitable. May his energetic zeal continue to guide those who will uphold his dream and continue to take Yoruba religion to its rightful place alongside the other religions of the world. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and omorisha. Ibá é layén t’orún.