By Ghazali Ibrahim
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, has passed away in the early hours of Monday at the age of 90, just two days after his milestone birthday.
Oba Olakulehin, born on July 5, 1935, was installed on July 12, 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun.
His reign quickly became emblematic of unity and calm leadership across Ibadanland.
The monarch, renowned for his dedication to cultural heritage and peace, breathed his last in Ibadan, following a year on the throne marked by efforts to fortify community cohesion.
His death comes at a moment when the city was still celebrating his first coronation anniversary alongside his 90th birthday.
Tributes regard him as a stabilizing figure who brought renewed focus on development within Ibadan’s lineages.
Confirmation of his passing was made by close royal family sources early Monday morning.
Though official statements from the Oyo State Government and the Olubadan-in-Council are still awaited, the news has cast a somber mood throughout the city.
As per Ibadan’s traditional customs, Oba Olakulehin ascended from the title of Balogun Olubadan under the chieftaincy succession system.
His short but impactful reign is expected to usher in a succession process and rites per tradition.
Eyes is now set on Rasheed Ladoja who is set to be the next in line according to the chieftaincy tradition.
