The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, and the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, have mourned the death of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on Monday at the age of 90.
The Olubadan died in the early hours of Monday, barely a year after ascending the throne following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun.
In a statement signed by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described the late Olubadan as a visionary monarch whose short reign left an enduring mark on Ibadanland.
“No human being has ever been granted immortality. Every soul shall taste death. A good heart has stopped beating, a good soul has ascended to heaven. We part with our beloved monarch in pain,” the Alaafin said.
Also reacting, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, described Oba Olakulehin’s reign as peaceful and valuable to the preservation of Ibadan’s tradition.
In a condolence message issued by his spokesman, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir expressed sympathies to the Olubadan’s family, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the people of Oyo State.
The monarch died during his 90th birthday celebration and the first anniversary of his coronation.
A former Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Toye Arulogun, confirmed the death, adding that an official statement would be issued by the family.
Burial arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
