The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90, just as preparations were underway to mark both his milestone birthday and the first anniversary of his ascension to the throne.
VERILY NEWS learnt that the revered monarch died in the early hours of Monday. His passing marks the end of a brief but symbolic reign as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, having been installed on June 14, 2024.
Oba Olakulehin took the mantle of leadership following the death of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun, and was widely regarded as a stabilising figure within the traditional and political fabric of Ibadan and Oyo State at large.
Though his tenure lasted just over a year, Oba Olakulehin’s reign was characterised by efforts to unify the Ibadan traditional hierarchy, foster community development, and maintain peace among the numerous chieftaincy lines in the land.
His coronation was celebrated as a moment of continuity and cultural pride for the people of Ibadanland, especially given his long service as a respected high chief before ascending the throne.
His death comes as the city was gearing up to honour both his 90th birthday and the one-year mark of his reign, events now likely to be observed in mourning rather than celebration.
Traditional leaders, community members, and political figures are expected to gather in the coming days to pay tribute to a monarch many described as wise, calm, and deeply rooted in Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
Oba Olakulehin’s journey to the throne followed the unique rotational succession system of Ibadanland, which draws monarchs from two ruling lines, the Otun and Balogun lines. He emerged after serving for decades in the chieftaincy ranks, most recently as Balogun of Ibadan, before ascending as Olubadan.
As Ibadanland prepares to mourn its traditional leader, attention will soon shift to the process of succession, a hallmark of the city’s structured and peaceful transition tradition.
More official statements and funeral arrangements are expected to be released in the coming hours by the family, the Olubadan-in-Council, and Oyo State Government.
What you should know
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, has died at the age of 90. Installed in June 2024, his reign lasted just over a year.
He passed away on the day preparations were ongoing for his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary. His passing marks the beginning of yet another traditional succession process in the ancient city.
