Tag: Olubadan

  • Gov. Makinde approves Ladoja’s nomination as next Olubadan

    Gov. Makinde approves Ladoja’s nomination as next Olubadan

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has approved the nomination of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    The approval was sequel to a meeting on Wednesday between the state government delegation and Oba Ladoja as well as members of the Olubadan Advisory Council.

    Confirming the approval, Oba Ladoja’s media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, said the installation of the traditional ruler  has been fixed for Sept. 26, at the Mapo Hall, Oja-oba, Ibadan.

    NAN reports that Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State, returned to Ibadan on Monday after weeks of absence from home.

    His nomination by the Olubadan Advisory Council on Aug. 4 followed the demise of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.

  • My journey to Olubadan throne filled with trials – Ladoja

    My journey to Olubadan throne filled with trials – Ladoja

    Olubadan designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has described his journey to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland as bumpy and filled with trials.

    Ladoja said this while addressing hundreds of Ibadan residents that besieged his Bodija residence on Monday evening to welcome him.

    He recalled his over three-decade journey through the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy, hierarchy, which uniquely requires aspirants to climb 36 carefully arranged steps, beginning from Jagun Balogun.

    The former governor of Oyo State said that many of those who started the journey with him when he became Jagun Balogun were no longer alive.

    Ladoja recalled that several prominent figures were present when he became Jagun, including MKO Abiola, Lamidi Adedibu, Dejo Raimi, Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Oba Lateef Adebimpe.

    Others are Jimoh Alliu and popular actress, Orisabunmi, all of whom he said have since passed away, leaving him to continue the journey alone.

    “It has been a journey of patience, perseverance, and the grace of God,” the Olubadan designate said.

    According to him, he became Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland on Oct 1, 1993, shortly before his election as a Senator representing Oyo South in the National Assembly.

    “From there, I steadily rose through the ranks of the Balogun line, a process that has taken me more than 31 years before emerging as the Olubadan designate,” he said.

    Ladoja explained further that “while the system is structured and predictable, the timing of ascension is never in the hands of any man, but only God decides”.

    He also paid tribute to his predecessor, late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, whom he described as a leader who upheld tradition with dignity.

    The Olubadan designate said that he received the news of the demise of Oba Olakulehin with shock, saying he never imagined destiny would call him to the throne so soon.

    He commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, the entire Olubadan Advisory Council, and the Ibadan indigenes.

    Ladoja further expressed gratitude to the Olubadan Advisory Council, which officially nominated him as the next Olubadan, assuring that his relationship with the council would progress.

    “I’m fully back and will commence engaging with relevant government and traditional authorities including the state governor, Oluwo and Araba of Ibadanland, as well as others, to determine how to go about the process of coronation,” he said.

    The former  governor appealed to Ibadan sons and daughters at home/ abroad, and all Ibadan residents to uphold him in their prayers for God’s guidance.

    “I seek your prayers for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide me in the discharge of this sacred duty as the new Olubadan.

    ” It is a huge responsibility, and I pray for divine direction to lead Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” he stated.

    NAN reports that Ladoja, who was nominated as the 44th Olubadan by the Olubadan Advisory Council on Aug. 4 following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.

    He returned to Ibadan on Monday after a long absence from Ibadan.

  • Remains of 43rd Olubadan, late Oba Olakulehin, to rest Today

    Remains of 43rd Olubadan, late Oba Olakulehin, to rest Today

    The late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be buried on Friday.

    It is expected that Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State will lead dignitaries across the country to St. Peter’s Church, Aremo, Ibadan, for the funeral service of the 43rd Olubadan.

    According to the Olubadan Palace Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, a book presentation in honour of the late Olubadan would also be held on Friday.

    He said that the presentation of the book, titled “How Not to Be a King”, would be held during the funeral reception at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

    “The book presentation was initially penned down to mark Oba Olakulehin’s 90th birthday and his coronation anniversary, but Kabiyesi’s demise on July 7 was responsible for the postponement,” Ayoade said.

    According to him, the book x-rays the life and times of Olakulehin.

    “It also features personal reflections and testimonies from family members, friends, associates, and members of the Olubadan Advisory Council,” he said.

    The palace press secretary added that the late Olubadan was known for his commitment to the unity and progress of Ibadanland.

    NAN reports that, as a build-up to the funeral, various activities are currently taking place at the late Olubadan’s residence in Alalubosa GRA, Aleshiloye, and the Central Palace in Oke Aremo.

  • Gani Adams mourns late Olubadan

    Gani Adams mourns late Olubadan

    The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams, has mourned the late Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing him as a national asset.

    The 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland died in the early hours of Monday at the age of 90.

    His death came two days after his 90th birthday and during preparations for his first coronation anniversary, which were already in full swing.

    In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Olawunmi Ojo, Adams said Nigeria had lost a peacemaker.

    Adams described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler, cultural custodian and statesman who dedicated his life to humanity and Yoruba heritage.

    The Aare commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, the Oyo State Government and the entire people of Ibadanland over the great loss.

    According to him, though Oba Olakulehin’s reign was brief, it brought peace and notable progress across Ibadan for both indigenes and residents.

    Adams noted that the late monarch resolved numerous chieftaincy disputes and tackled land-grabbing activities, thereby preserving peace and order in the land.

    He added that Oba Olakulehin maintained cordial relations with the Oyo State Government and other monarchs, which fostered harmonious inter-kingdom cooperation.

    This, he said, contributed to significant developmental strides across Ibadan during the late monarch’s reign.

    Adams recalled the warm reception given to Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) members at the palace during their World Congress visit in January.

    He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the late monarch’s soul and divine strength for the bereaved family and community.

    Olakulehin received his staff of office from Gov. Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, becoming the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan.

  • Adeleke mourns Olubadan

    Adeleke mourns Olubadan

    Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has described the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, as a loss,  not only to Ibadan but to the entire Yoruba race.

    Adeleke in a statement by his spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed on Monday in Osogbo, extended heartfelt condolences to Gov. Seyi Makinde, the state government, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Royal Family, and the people of Ibadan.

    The governor said although Oba Olakulehin’s reign was brief, it was marked by dignity, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of the people of Ibadanland.

    “Oba Olakulehin was a traditional ruler of profound wisdom and grace. Even within a short reign, he embodied the virtues of Yoruba royalty’s calm leadership, cultural pride, and unwavering love for his people,” he said.

    Adeleke further said that the passing of the traditional ruler at the age of 90 marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the traditional institution of Ibadanland,  and left a legacy of selfless service, courage, and peace.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Osun, I extend sincere condolences to Makinde, the state government, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the entire people of Ibadan.

    “Oba Olakulehin, even in his final days, remained a symbol of continuity, cultural wisdom, and royal honor.

    “His transition is a great loss,  not only to the throne of Ibadanland but to the Yoruba people whose values he dutifully upheld.

    “May God comfort the people of Ibadan and grant the late traditional ruler eternal rest among his forebears,” he said.

  • Olubadan’s passing, a huge national loss – Tinubu

    Olubadan’s passing, a huge national loss – Tinubu

    President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep shock over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing it as a huge national loss.

    ‎The revered king died early Monday, just two days after his 90th birthday and days before the anniversary of his coronation.

    ‎Oba Olakulehin was crowned the 43rd Olubadan on July 12, 2024.

    ‎In a condolence message signed by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu paid tribute to the Oba’s impactful reign.

    ‎The President  extended heartfelt sympathy  to the royal family, the government, and the people of Oyo State and Ibadanland.

    ‎Tinubu described Oba Olakulehin as a symbol of wisdom, continuity, peace, and enduring statesmanship.

    ‎The President commended the king’s remarkable life, dedicated to public service, leadership, and national development.‎

    ‎He praised the Oba as an accomplished military officer, peace advocate, and moral guide in Nigerian society.

    ‎“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle.

    ‎”His contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, the military and national development.

    ‎“His passing is a significant loss to Ibadanland and the nation,” Tinubu stated.

    ‎The President noted with sorrow,  that the death came just before the traditional ruler’s coronation anniversary.

    ‎”Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations.

    “Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary. He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool,” the President stated.

    ‎Tinubu hailed the Oba’s legacy of bridging tradition and modernity with grace and wisdom, while being a stabilising influence and moral authority across Yorubaland.

    ‎The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the king’s soul and urged Ibadan residents to find strength in his legacy.

    Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village, now in Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo state.

    ‎He began his education in Ibadan, trained as a teacher, and later attended Yaba Technical Institute.

    ‎He joined the Western Region Government as a clerk before earning OND and HND in Building at Yaba College of Technology.

    ‎In 1970, he was commissioned into the Nigerian Army and served diligently across the country.

    ‎He retired in 1979 after a distinguished 20-year military career and ventured into business.

    ‎Olakulehin also served as a federal legislator before ascending Ibadan’s traditional leadership hierarchy.

  • Ooni mourns late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin

    Ooni mourns late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja 11, has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

    Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, passed away on Monday.

    In a statement signed by the Ooni’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Comrade Moses Olafare, the Ooni said that the entire Oduduwa race, is saddened by the demise.

    He noted that the reign of the late Oba, was marked by grace, wisdom, and fatherly leadership, which brought peace and stability to the ancient city of Ibadan.

    “Oba Olakulehin was a quintessential traditional ruler whose journey to the throne reflected discipline, humility, and a lifetime of service to his people.

    “As Balogun Olubadan, and later as Olubadan, he carried the responsibilities of his lineage with utmost dignity and unwavering dedication,” he said

    He said that the significant contributions of Olakulehin to the promotion of yoruba culture, as well as unity and peaceful coexistence among traditional rulers, cannot be forgotten.

    According to him, the death of Oba Olakulehin, marked the end of an era in Ibadan land and indeed across yorubaland.

    Ooni recalled the cordial relationship which existed between the throne of Oduduwa and that of the Olubadan during the tenure of the late Oba

    “He was an exemplary king, a beacon of tradition, and a symbol of stability, whose impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.

    “As the Natural Head of the Oduduwa nation, the Ooni offers heartfelt condolences to the royal family of the late monarch.

    “The Olubadan-in-Council, the good people of Ibadanland, and the entire Oyo state, particularly Gov. Seyi Makinde, under whose leadership Oba Olakulehin received the staff of office,” he said.

    The Ooni prayed for divine strength for the family and subjects of the late monarch at this difficult time.

  • Eldest son of late Olubadan opens up on father’s death

    Eldest son of late Olubadan opens up on father’s death

    Mr Olasumbo Owolabi, the eldest son of the late Olubadan of Ibadan, has said his father left lasting legacies of a life well-lived and worthy of celebration.

    Olasunmbo stated this during the family announcement of the Oba’s demise at the private residence of the traditional ruler on Monday in Ibadan.

    Olasunmbo, represented by the former Commissioner for Information in Oyo State, Mr Toye Arulogun, said his father made significant impacts and landmark achievements while he lived.

    He said that the endeavours of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, cut across politics, business, military career and traditional matters.

    “We are not mourning because it is a double celebration of his 90th birthday and glorious passing to eternal glory. We also give glory to God because he left enduring legacies for the family,” he said.

    The family announcement was preceded by the palace traditional talking drum final display, signifying the end of the late Oba’s era.

    Olakulehin, who ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, died in the early hours of Monday, barely two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

    His reign followed that of Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who died on March 14, 2024, at the age of 81.

    Emir of Ilorin mourns Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin

    Meanwhile, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has mourned the death of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on Monday.

    This is contained in a condolence message issued by the Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona and made available to NAN in Ilorin on Monday.

    Oba Olakulehin died in Ibadan at the age of 90. The Emir described the death of Oba Olakulehin as the will of Almighty Allah.

    He noted that the one year reign of the deceased was peaceful and valuable to the sustenance of the cultural heritage and tradition of the people of Ibadan and Oyo State in general.

    Sulu-Gambari commiserated with the immediate and extended family members of Oba Olakulehin, Olubadan-In-Council, Oyo State Traditional Rulers Council, government and good people of Oyo State over the unfortunate incidence.

    He prayed to God for the repose the soul of the deceased and to give the people of the ancient city of Ibadan and humanity at large, the patience to bear the great loss.

    Oba Olakulehin’s memory will remain evergreen – Oyo CAN

    Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has said that the memory of  the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, woould be evergreen.

    The late Olakulehin died on Monday morning barely two days after his 90th birthday.

    The CAN Chairman in the state, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju,  in his condolence message made available to newsmen in Ibadan, said the news of the royal father’s demise was shocking and sad.

    Akinyemiju described the deceased as a graceful leader with a heart full of compassion, who stood tall as a harbinger of inclusiveness and fatherhood.

    “Kabiyesi was a devout Christian and had been a powerful force in every of his subjects’ life, imparting strong values and generosity.

    “He had always been the most involved and committed father to all.

    “During his reign, he ensured that all residents within his domain enjoyed very peaceful co-existence.

    “Ibadan land and environs similarly witnessed unprecedented development, the traditional institution in the land also experienced transformation that has moved the institution to greater height,” he said.

    The Oyo CAN chairman emphasised that Olakulehin’s departure is certainly an irreparable loss.

    “However, our consolation is that he lived well, a life full of legacies, dedicated to the service of God and humanity.

    “Baba was there for the unity of the Country when he fought gallantly as a military officer during the Nigerian civil war.

    “Undoubtedly, Kabiyesi remains the signature of love, kindness and template for commitment in the things of God and the progress of the state.

    “The Body of Christ in Oyo State commiserates with the good people of Oyo State, the Olubadan in Council, the State Government and Kabiyesi’s immediate family on this great loss.

    “For our beloved Kabiyesi, the song is ended, but the melody lingers on forever.

    “May God repose his soul and grant fortitude to all mourners to bear the irreparable loss; adieu Kabiyesi,” Akinyemiju said.

    Olubadan’s death monumental loss – Senator Alli

    Also, Sen. Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has described the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, as a monumental loss to Ibadanland and the nation at large.

    Alli, in a statement he signed in Ibadan on Monday, expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the royal father, describing him as a symbol of wisdom, peace and continuity.

    According to him, the Oba’s brief but impactful reign brought renewed dignity and strength to the Ibadan traditional institution.

    Alli, who is also the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, commended Olakunlehin’s commitment to the service of Ibadanland, noting that he ascended the throne at a critical time.

    He said that the late Oba offered fatherly guidance and much-needed stability.

    “As the senator representing Oyo South and as Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, I join the entire Ibadanland in mourning the departure of a rare royal figure.

    “Kabiyesi’s humility, clarity of purpose, and love for his people will remain etched in the memory of those privileged to know and serve with him,” he said.

    Alli extended his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Government, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and the people of Ibadanland.

    He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the late royal father eternal rest and comfort to the bereaved family.

    Olubadan was a beacon of wisdom, custodian of Yoruba culture – ADC

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC), has mourned Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing him as a beacon of wisdom and a custodian of Yoruba culture and traditions.

    The Interim National Publicity Secretary of ADC, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, described Olakulehin’s death as ‘a loss of a great icon’, whose life exemplified service, humility, and dedication to the development of his people.

    He expressed the party’s condolences to the family of the deceased, the government of Oyo, the people of Ibadanland, and the entire Yoruba nation, over the passing of Olubadan who joined his ancestors at the age of 90.

    “Oba Olakulehin was a distinguished royal father, a beacon of wisdom, and a custodian of Yoruba culture and traditions.

    “His reign was marked by exemplary leadership, unity, and a commitment to the progress and well-being of Ibadanland.

    “His legacy as a peace-loving and visionary king will forever be etched in the hearts of his people and beyond,” he said.

    Abdullahi prayed that the Almighty God grant the Olakulehin’s family, the Ibadan Traditional Council, and the people of Oyo State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

    “May the soul of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations,’’ Abdullahi said.

    The late Oba Olakulehin, who celebrated his 90th birthday on July 5, died in the early hours of Monday.

  • Reactions trail death of Olubadan of Ibadanland

    Reactions trail death of Olubadan of Ibadanland

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has commiserated with the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Monday morning.

    Makinde commiserated with the family when a delegation of the late Olakulehin family visited his office at the State Secretariat, Agodi Ibadan, to officially inform him of the demise of the 43rd Olubadan.

    The governor described the passage of Oba Olakulehin as a great loss to the people of Ibadanland.

    He pledged that the state would stand by the family and give the late Olubadan a befitting burial.

    Makinde said that the legacies of Oba Olakulehin would remain significant in the state’s traditional and cultural space.

    “We do not always want them to go; we want them to stay with us, but God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time.

    “I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial,” the governor said.

    Earlier, a former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan, Chief Bayo Oyero, who led members of the late Olubadan’s family to the governor’s office, informed the governor officially of Olakulehin’s demise.

    Oyero thanked Makinde for his support to the late Ibadan traditional ruler through out his(Olakulehin) reign as Olubadan.

    He, on behalf of the deceased family, expressed gratitude to the governor and his government for making Oba Olakulehin’s reign a success.

    “We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing away of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, who passed away early this morning.

    “We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension to the imperial throne of Ibadanland.

    “We want to thank your government for all you have done, including a remarkable, historic coronation ceremony, which the government did for him.” Oyero said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oba Olakulehin who ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland a year ago, celebrated his 90th birthday on July 5.

    Oyo Speaker mourns passing of Olubadan

    The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, has expressed profound sorrow and heartfelt condolences over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin.

    Olakulehin, died early Monday morning, barely two days after his 90th birthday.

    In a statement on Monday, Ogundoyin described the news of the death of the revered monarch’s demise as “a heartbreaking twist of fate”.

    He recalled the recent joyful tributes he extended to the Olubadan on the nonagenarian birthday.

    “Just two days ago, we were offering prayers of thanksgiving for a glorious 90th year.

    “Today, we bow our heads in mourning, grappling with the sudden departure of a royal father whose presence was a beacon of tradition, unity, and wisdom in Ibadanland,” the speaker said.

    Ogundoyin said that the Olubadan’s life was a radiant testament to selfless leadership and unwavering devotion to Ibadan’s sociocultural heritage.

    He praised Oba Olakulehin’s reign as one marked by peace, dignity, and the strengthening of traditional values across the state.

    The speaker extended his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the royal family, the entire Ibadan indigenes both at home and abroad, and the government of Oyo State.

    Ogundoyin emphasised that though the monarch has physically departed, his legacy would echo across generations.

    “In just 48 hours, we moved from celebration to sorrow, but such is the tapestry of life. Kabiyesi lived a full, impactful life.

    “Though our hearts are heavy, we give thanks for the decades he dedicated to the throne and to the people. May the soul of our dearly beloved Olubadan rest eternally in peace,” he said.

    Agbekoya mourns Olubadan’s death

    The Agbekoya Society of Nigeria, a group dedicated to the protection of Yoruba heritage, has mourned the death of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, joined his ancestors at the age of 90.

    The group’s National President, Mr Okikiola Kamorudeen, in a condolence message in Lagos on Monday, described the late traditional ruler as a man of peace, wisdom, and strength.

    It stated that the late royal father served Ibadanland with dignity and unshakable commitment to unity, traditional values, and progress.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Olubadan died early on Monday morning, after celebrating his 90th birthday on Saturday.

    He ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, following his coronation by Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, serving as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    “Although his time on the throne was relatively short, Oba Olakulehin’s reign was marked by tranquility, maturity, and respect for tradition.

    “His death is a monumental loss not only to Ibadanland, but to the entire Yoruba nation.

    “The Agbekoya Society of Nigeria mourns alongside the people of Ibadanland, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII), and the Oyo State Government.

    “We pray for the peaceful repose of the royal father’s soul and for strength to the royal family and people he left behind,”he said.

    Kamorudeen said the society congratulated Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, who is next in line to ascend the throne of the Olubadan.

    He said that Agbekoya Society also extends warm congratulations to Oba Eddy Oyewole, on his recent and well-deserved elevation to the position of Otun Olubadan of Ibadan land.

    Kamorudeen said his promotion was a testament to his dedication and the strength of the time-tested succession structure of the Olubadan system.

    “The society emphasises the importance of unity, orderliness, and adherence to tradition as Ibadan enters this sacred period of transition,” he said.

    Kamorudeen urged all stakeholders traditional leaders, political actors, community leaders, and the general public to uphold the sanctity of the process and resist any attempts to sow division or disruption.

    He said that Ibadanland must remain united and the Yoruba heritage must remain unshaken while Agbekoya would continue to defend the land and the truth.

  • How Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin died 2 days after 90th birthday

    How Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin died 2 days after 90th birthday

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, joined his ancestors early on Monday morning at the age of 90.

    The Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, who confirmed the death of the royal father, said that “Baba joined his ancestors early Monday.”

    When Alabi was first contacted, he solicited for some time to confirm and call back, and on his return call confirmed the news.

    The traditional ruler, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, joined his ancestors barely one year after he ascended the throne.

    The demise of Oba Olakulehin is coming barely two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

    Olakulehin, born July 5, 1935, ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, following his coronation by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, serving as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    The deceased succeeded the late Oba (Dr) Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who joined his ancestors in 2024, two years after he ascended the throne.

    His family members were reportedly seen in the early of Monday moving out the personal belongings of the late Olubadan from the palace at Oke Aremo in Ibadan.

    Other sources, who preferred to remain anonymous, said that the family is currently working on official statement which would be released soon

    Some family members and their friends have arrived the private residence of the royal father.

    The Osi Olubadan, former governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Ladoja, is next in line to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland.