Olubadan of Ibadanland Passes at 90, Leaving a City in Mourning
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Ibadanland has lost its revered monarch, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025. The news, confirmed by family sources and local authorities, has sent shockwaves through the ancient city, coming just two days after the monarch’s grand 90th birthday celebration and nearly a year after his coronation on July 12, 2024.
Oba Olakulehin’s death marks the end of a brief but impactful reign. Ascending the throne amidst health concerns, he defied expectations with his quiet strength and dedication to cultural preservation. His coronation, officiated by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, was a moment of pride for Ibadan, symbolizing unity and resilience. Yet, whispers of his frail health lingered, with some insiders speculating that his ascension was a race against time.
Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin was celebrated as a unifying figure. Just days ago, dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and Governor Makinde hailed him as a beacon of wisdom during his 90th birthday festivities. The timing of his passing, coinciding with plans for his coronation anniversary, adds a layer of poignancy to the loss. Social media posts on X reflect the city’s grief, with users mourning the “king who entered the ceiling” and praising his legacy.
The Olubadan’s death has sparked curiosity about the succession. Tradition points to Rashidi Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor and the current Otun Olubadan, as the next in line. Ladoja, a polarizing yet influential figure, has long expressed his ambition to ascend the throne, a dream now within reach. However, whispers of potential disputes within the Olubadan-in-Council hint at a brewing storm over the succession process, keeping Ibadan on edge.
As Ibadan mourns, questions swirl: How will the city honor its fallen monarch? Will Ladoja’s rise be smooth, or will old rivalries resurface? The Ibadan Traditional Council is expected to announce funeral arrangements soon, but for now, the city pauses to reflect on a leader whose brief reign left an indelible mark. Oba Olakulehin’s legacy of peace and cultural pride will linger, even as Ibadanland braces for an uncertain future.
Rest in peace, Kabiyesi. Your throne may be empty, but your spirit endures.
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