The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90, just days after marking his milestone birthday and the first anniversary of his reign.
The revered monarch reportedly died in the early hours of Monday, according to a family source who confirmed the news to reporters.
Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne on June 14, 2024, following the death of Oba Lekan Balogun, becoming the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. His reign, though brief, was marked by widespread respect and admiration for his leadership and statesmanship.
His passing comes at a symbolic moment — just two days after he celebrated his 90th birthday on Saturday, July 5, and less than a week before the first anniversary of his coronation, scheduled for July 12.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had issued a statement last Friday, celebrating the monarch’s life and legacy. In his tribute, the President described Oba Olakulehin as “a foremost traditional ruler, a custodian of Yoruba culture and values, and an elder statesman whose life reflected decades of selfless service to Nigeria.”
