The Passing of a Great Leader
The Otun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, is set to become the next Olubadan following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. His death was confirmed on Monday, and it has sent shockwaves through the community.
A Life Well-Lived
The death of Oba Olakulehin was first reported online before being officially confirmed by Toye Arulogun, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism. Speaking at the private residence of the late monarch, Arulogun expressed gratitude to Almighty God and announced the passing of Oba Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday.
He emphasized that while the family was not mourning the loss, they were celebrating the impactful life of the monarch. Oba Olakulehin lived a life that spanned from military service to business and politics, and he ascended to the throne just a year ago. His qualities were seen as worthy of emulation.
The Transition of Power
Following the news, the palace of the Olubadan was temporarily shut down, and family members and workers relocated to the Alalubosa Government Reserved Area. Oba Olakulehin, who celebrated his 90th birthday last Saturday, was expected to mark his first coronation anniversary on July 12. However, this milestone will now be overshadowed by his passing.
Activities such as charity donations and the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles were underway, with the Olubadan Olakulehin Football Cup reaching its semi-final stage on Sunday. The sudden death of the monarch led to an influx of drummers, well-wishers, and supporters at the Bodija residence of Oba Ladoja, who is next in line for the throne based on the rotational system of ascendancy.
Tributes from Leaders
Tributes have poured in from various leaders and figures across Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu expressed deep shock and praised the Olubadan’s life of service to humanity. He described Oba Olakulehin as a custodian of Ibadan’s history and culture, a man of intellect and principle whose contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, and national development.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State also offered condolences, expressing that the government would support the family during this difficult time. He shared his personal experience of losing a parent, offering comfort to the family.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun commiserated with Makinde over the passing of Olakulehin, highlighting his urbanity and deep knowledge of Yoruba culture. He noted that the late monarch’s reign brought harmony and unity to his subjects.
Recognition from Other Figures
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki called Oba Olakulehin a “bridge builder” and a revered custodian of Yoruba heritage. Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, described the news as a heartbreaking twist of fate, noting that the community moved from celebration to sorrow within days.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, expressed deep sorrow, calling the monarch a remarkable leader and good-hearted giant. He acknowledged the contributions of Oba Olakulehin to peace and development in Ibadanland.
Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, lamented the loss, describing the late Olubadan as a visionary monarch whose contributions would remain indelible. He reflected on the inevitability of death and the importance of preparing for it.
Traditional leaders like Oba Murtala Adeleke and Senator Sharafadeen Alli also expressed their condolences, emphasizing the significance of the loss to Yorubaland and the traditional institution.
A Legacy of Service
Oba Olakulehin’s life was marked by humility, clarity of purpose, and a deep love for his people. His brief but impactful reign brought renewed dignity and strength to the Ibadan traditional institution. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to service and leadership.
His passing leaves a void that will be felt across the nation, but his memory will endure as a symbol of wisdom, peace, and continuity. The family and the people of Ibadanland find solace in the belief that his soul rests eternally in peace.
