Grief in Ibadan as Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin passes on two days after 90th birthday
Ibadanland was thrown into mourning on Monday following the death of its paramount monarch, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. The revered traditional ruler died in the early hours of July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and during the festivities marking his first anniversary on the throne.
Oba Olakulehin, who ascended the exalted throne and received his staff of office from the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on July 12, officially becoming the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
His passing occurred during the ongoing celebrations at his Alalubosa private residence, which has since become a hub for mourners, sympathisers, and well-wishers. The gates of the palace were thrown open on Monday morning, allowing a steady stream of traditional chiefs, indigenes, and residents to pay their last respects to the late monarch.
Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin’s reign, though brief, was marked by his calm disposition, deep knowledge of Ibadan’s rich traditions, and commitment to unity within the Olubadan-in-Council. His demise marks the end of an era, particularly as he is remembered for ascending the throne after surviving a tense succession battle.
Reacting to the monarch’s death, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, received a formal delegation from the family at the Governor’s Office. The delegation included Chief Bayo Oyero, a former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, the late monarch’s younger brother, Mr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin, and his son, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
While receiving them, Governor Makinde expressed profound sadness and promised the state government’s full support to the family in this trying period. He assured them of a state-sponsored burial befitting of the late monarch’s legacy.
“We don’t always want our loved ones to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time,” Makinde said. “I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will stand by the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.”
The governor noted the coincidence of the date, saying it marked 13 years since the passing of his own father, and prayed for strength for the bereaved family.
In his remarks, Chief Bayo Oyero expressed gratitude to the governor for supporting Oba Olakulehin’s ascension despite the controversies surrounding the succession process.
“We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension,” Oyero said. “The coronation was remarkable and historic, and we are grateful for all you have done.”
Oba Olakulehin’s death has triggered a wave of condolence messages from within and outside Ibadan, with many paying tribute to a monarch they described as a symbol of wisdom, peace, and tradition.
As the city begins preparations for his burial, many reflect on his short but impactful reign and the role he played in sustaining the heritage of one of Nigeria’s oldest and most influential traditional institutions.
Further announcements regarding funeral arrangements and succession are expected from the Olubadan-in-Council and the Oyo State Government in the coming days.
