The Soun of Ogbomoso, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, on Thursday, joined prominent voices in mourning the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Representing the Soun at the Oke Aremo Palace in Ibadan was a high-powered delegation comprising the Asiwaju of Ogbomoso, Retired General Oladayo Popoola, and the Abese of Ogbomoso, Chief James Oladipo, who arrived around 10:30 a.m. They were warmly received by the Maye Olubadan, Chief Lekan Alabi, former Press Secretary to then-Colonel Oladayo Popoola during his tenure as Military Governor of old Oyo State.
While eulogizing the late monarch, the Soun, through his emissaries, praised Oba Olakulehin for his exemplary reign and unwavering commitment to the peace and progress of Ibadanland. He also congratulated the Otun Olubadan and former Governor of Oyo State, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, on his emergence as the Olubadan-designate, expressing optimism that the long-standing relationship between Ogbomoso and Ibadan will flourish under the new reign.
Also paying a condolence visit was a distinguished delegation from the Iyalode line of Ibadanland. The group, led by Osi Iyalode Chief (Mrs) Yewande Durosaro, included eminent women leaders such as two-time Minister Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande; Chief (Mrs) Kudi Adeleke; Chief (Mrs) Moji Ladipo; Chief (Mrs) Tawa Sharafadeen Alli; Chief (Mrs) Folake Akande; Dr (Mrs) Ayo Alaga; and Chief (Mrs) Onibiyo Scott.
Speaking on behalf of the Iyalode delegation, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande paid glowing tribute to the late monarch, describing Oba Olakulehin as a pride to humanity. She also congratulated Oba Ladoja, offering prayers for a long, impactful reign that would elevate Ibadan to greater heights.
In a similar vein, the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, led by Commissioner Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, visited the palace to mourn the late Olubadan and celebrate the emergence of his successor.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, also paid a condolence and congratulatory visit. Led by its Chairman, Senior Apostle Akinyemiju, the delegation praised Oba Olakulehin for his dedication to Nigeria’s unity before ascending the throne. Apostle Akinyemiju commended Ibadan’s unmatched traditional succession system and described Oba Ladoja as a business titan, seasoned politician, and renowned administrator. He prayed for divine grace, long life, and good health for the incoming monarch.
Furthermore, over 100 Baales and community leaders in Ibadan gathered to pay their last respects to the late Olubadan. The delegation, led by Chief Olunde Ige, Chairman of the Ibadan Council of Baales, also congratulated the Olubadan-designate. They offered prayers for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for Oba Ladoja as he assumes the sacred responsibilities of the throne.
According to Chief Ige, the Baales originally planned to visit the late Olubadan to celebrate his 90th birthday and upcoming first coronation anniversary. Sadly, what was to be a joyful visit turned into a condolence mission. He described Oba Olakulehin as a monarch of many parts who left a legacy of dignity, service, and honor.
The Baale delegation was received on behalf of the Olubadan-designate by top chiefs, including the Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Ekerin Balogun, Oba Akeem Adewoyin; Maye Olubadan, Chief Lekan Alabi; Areago Olubadan, Chief Kola Gbadamosi; Aregbe Omo Balogun, Chief Taofeek Adegoke; as well as other High Chiefs and Mogajis.
