On this past Sunday, August 13th, His Royal Highness King James Oladipo Arokoola Buremoh of Idera Kingdom, Nigeria - along with his daughter and son-in-law Amos (A.J.) and Angela Johnson, Jr. joined our congregation for the morning service. (The king has other children who reside in Louisville. The Johnsons have worshiped with us on several occasions).
The king shared his life story with the church, including how he came to the United States, attended Columbus College in Columbus, GA, and worked for the Shell Oil Company in Houston, TX. He even held a job as a double-decked bus driver for the Gray Line tour bus company in New York City.
We marveled at his telling that he was a wrestler under the name of Ladi the African Tiger and that he once held the title of world heavyweight champion wrestler. The weaving and turning of events leading to his becoming a king captivated everyone who heard him. In Idera, Nigeria, he is working to improve the educational system and has established a vocational training center for youth. Medical and infrastructure improvements are also priorities for the country he serves.
It was obvious that he expressed his gratitude to the Lord for His protection and guidance. King Buremoh's fascinating story - with more details than this short notation- can be read online in an article entitled "Ladi the African Tiger: From the Pro Wrestling Ring to the Throne as King (there are other such references as well). He is writing a book to share the story of his amazing life. We were blessed to have had a king join us as we worshiped The King of Kings.