The city of Ibadan and the Yoruba nation are in mourning as Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, has passed away. According to multiple credible and verified sources, the monarch joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.
According to these sources, Oba Olakulehin passed away peacefully at his residence in Ibadan after a brief period of health challenges.
A Monarch of Distinction
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, following the death of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun. His brief but impactful reign was marked by his commitment to the peace, unity, and cultural heritage of Ibadanland.
Key Life Milestones:
Born: July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja Village, Ibadan.
Military Career: Served in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, rising to the rank of Major.
Public Service: Former House of Representatives member in 1992 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Entrepreneurship: Founder of several Ibadan-based businesses including FAKOL Nigeria Ltd and Olakulehin Press (now Solid Prints).
Traditional Journey: Progressed through the well-known Ibadan chieftaincy lines from Mogaji to Balogun, before becoming the Olubadan.
Tributes and Public Reactions
Since the confirmation of his death, tributes have been pouring in from political leaders, traditional rulers, cultural groups, and citizens across the nation.
– Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State expressed deep sorrow, calling Oba Olakulehin “a symbol of unity, humility, and dignity.”
– The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, praised his exemplary leadership and contributions to traditional governance in Nigeria.
– Community leaders and Ibadan residents have also shared heartfelt condolences, remembering him as a man of peace and a father figure to all.
Succession Process
Following Ibadan’s unique rotational succession system, the next Olubadan is expected to be the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, who, according to the traditional line, is former Oyo State Governor, Chief Rasheed Ladoja.
The traditional council will soon begin the formal processes leading to the installation of the next monarch.
Final Reflection
Oba Olakulehin’s life story is one of service, sacrifice, and dedication—from the battlefield to the business world, from the chambers of parliament to the sacred stool of the Olubadan.
His reign, though short, left a lasting legacy of peace and cultural pride. As the people of Ibadan and the Yoruba nation mourn, we celebrate a life well-lived and a king deeply loved by his people.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
– Deeprows News
