The Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Lekan Balogun, known as Alli Okunmade II, has passed away at the age of 81.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State confirmed the monarch’s demise, stating that Oba Balogun passed away on Thursday evening, March 14, at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde expressed his condolences in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju. He described Oba Balogun as a “mighty Iroko” who made significant contributions to the history and heritage of Ibadan land during his reign as the 42nd Olubadan.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of the state, I extend my deepest condolences to the immediate family of Oba Balogun, the Olubadan-in-Council, the state Traditional Council, and the people of Ibadanland. May the soul of our late monarch rest in peace,” Governor Makinde said.
He also remarked that the passing of Oba Dr. Balogun marks the end of an era for Ibadanland, leaving behind a profound void in its rich history and heritage.
Born in 1942, Oba Balogun, a former Fourth Republic Senator, represented Oyo Central senatorial district from 1999 to 2003. He ascended the throne on March 11, 2022, following the demise of Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Oguguniso III, who passed away on January 2, 2022, after reigning since March 4, 2016.
