Ooni pays tribute to late Olubadan, hails him as pillar of Yoruba heritage

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Ooni of Ife and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing him as a beacon of Yoruba culture and stability.

Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Comrade Moses Olafare, the Ooni said the monarch’s reign, though brief, brought grace, wisdom, and fatherly leadership to Ibadanland.

Oba Ogunwusi, who also serves as Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, described Olakulehin’s journey to the throne as one marked by discipline, humility, and dedicated service.

“Oba Olakulehin was a quintessential traditional ruler who carried the responsibilities of his lineage with utmost dignity and unwavering dedication,” the Ooni said.

He praised the late monarch’s efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, fostering unity among traditional rulers, and ensuring peaceful coexistence in his domain.

The Ooni extended condolences to the Olubadan royal family, the Olubadan-in-Council, the people of Ibadanland, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, under whose administration the late king was installed in July 2024.

He prayed for strength for the bereaved and called on all Yoruba sons and daughters to honour Oba Olakulehin’s legacy of loyalty, patience, and service to tradition.