Drummers and praise singers filled the residence of the Balogun of Ibadanland and Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, as reported by Saturday PUNCH. Olakulehin, set to be crowned as the next Olubadan, pending the approval of state governor Seyi Makinde, stands poised to assume the throne following the passing of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, who succumbed to a brief illness.
Makinde confirmed the monarch’s demise, stating that Oba Balogun passed away at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Born on October 18, 1942, Oba Balogun’s reign lasted for two years.
Coming from the Balogun lineage, Olakulehin, a former member of the House of Representatives during the Third Republic, traces his roots to Ita Baale in Ibadan North East Local Government. The palace drummers were slated to journey from Alli-Iwo to Oba Olakulehin’s Ita Baale Palace, marking his symbolic ascent to the throne.
Meanwhile, tributes poured in from President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and several state governors in honor of the late Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II. The late monarch was laid to rest at his Aliiwo ancestral home, with dignitaries including the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, and others paying their respects.
Earlier, a lying-in-state ceremony was held at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, before the late monarch’s remains were interred at Aliiwo, where prayers were offered for the repose of his soul. The route from Mapo to the ancestral home was closed off, with markets along the way shuttered as a mark of respect. Adequate security measures were put in place to ensure orderliness.
In mourning, Tinubu expressed profound grief, praising the Olubadan’s life of service and advocacy for peace, honesty, and unity. Tinubu noted the invaluable counsel of the late monarch, underscoring his significant contributions to his people and the nation at large.
