89-yr-old Owolabi Olakulehin Enthroned As Olubadan Today

Oba Owolabi Olakulehin will ascend the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland today, marking a new chapter for the ancient city. The 89-year-old ex-serviceman emerged as the Olubadan-designate following the death of Oba Lekan Balogun on March 14, 2024.

As part of the traditional ascension rituals, Olakulehin will tour the Oluwo Labosinde compound at Oja’ba, Ibadan, and the Ose Meji shrine. After completing the tour, Olakulehin, who became Mogaji in 1986, will be officially crowned the new Olubadan of Ibadan. The state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, will then present him with the staff and other instruments of office at the Mapo Hall.

During an inspection visit to the Olubadan Palace in June, Olakulehin recalled his aspirations from over three decades ago, saying, “When we started the ladder (Mogaji), I asked, ‘Do we get to the climax?’ And they said yes. So, I knew that I would become Olubadan of Ibadanland. Now we are there.”

However, Olakulehin’s health has sparked controversy. Some kingmakers expressed concerns about his ability to rule following the death of Oba Balogun. Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Otun Balogun of Ibadan, declared Olakulehin unfit for the throne due to health reasons, alleging that some people were pushing him to ascend the throne for their selfish interests.

Ajibola stated, “I am his second in command, I’m his lieutenant. He has not called me to say, ‘My Otun, I’m back. So, tell your people. And when are you seeing me?’ They are just forcing him because of their own selfish interest. Has anybody seen him since last Friday? Those who went there after Friday were unable to see him. They are forcing this man. We should allow him to get well.”

In response, Olakulehin’s family and some kingmakers rejected Ajibola’s claims. The head of the kingmakers and former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, criticized Ajibola, stating that he was not a medical doctor qualified to declare anyone fit or unfit for the throne.

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