Olubadan passing marked with celebration, not mourning — Family

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has described his passing as a celebration of a life well lived rather than a moment of mourning.

Speaking on Monday at the monarch’s private residence in Ibadan, the eldest son of the late traditional ruler, Mr. Olasumbo Owolabi, said Oba Olakulehin lived a rich and impactful life, contributing meaningfully to politics, the military, business, and traditional leadership.

Represented by former Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Toye Arulogun, Olasumbo noted that the family was proud of the legacies their patriarch left behind.

“We are not mourning because it is a double celebration — his 90th birthday and his glorious transition. We give glory to God because he left enduring legacies for the family and society at large,” he said.

Earlier, the palace witnessed the symbolic final beating of the traditional talking drum, signifying the end of Oba Olakulehin’s reign.

Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, was crowned on July 12, 2024. He passed away in the early hours of Monday, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

His ascension followed the death of his predecessor, Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who died on March 14, 2024, at the age of 81.