President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep shock over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing it as a huge national loss.

‎The revered king died early Monday, just two days after his 90th birthday and days before the anniversary of his coronation.

‎Oba Olakulehin was crowned the 43rd Olubadan on July 12, 2024.

‎In a condolence message signed by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu paid tribute to the Oba’s impactful reign.

‎The President  extended heartfelt sympathy  to the royal family, the government, and the people of Oyo State and Ibadanland.

‎Tinubu described Oba Olakulehin as a symbol of wisdom, continuity, peace, and enduring statesmanship.

‎The President commended the king’s remarkable life, dedicated to public service, leadership, and national development.

‎He praised the Oba as an accomplished military officer, peace advocate, and moral guide in Nigerian society.

‎“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle.

‎”His contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, the military and national development.

‎“His passing is a significant loss to Ibadanland and the nation,” Tinubu stated.

‎The President noted with sorrow,  that the death came just before the traditional ruler’s coronation anniversary.

‎”Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations.

‎”Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary. He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool,” the President stated.

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‎Tinubu hailed the Oba’s legacy of bridging tradition and modernity with grace and wisdom, while being a stabilising influence and moral authority across Yorubaland.

‎The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the king’s soul and urged Ibadan residents to find strength in his legacy.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village, now in Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo state.

‎He began his education in Ibadan, trained as a teacher, and later attended Yaba Technical Institute.

‎He joined the Western Region Government as a clerk before earning OND and HND in Building at Yaba College of Technology.

‎In 1970, he was commissioned into the Nigerian Army and served diligently across the country.

‎He retired in 1979 after a distinguished 20-year military career and ventured into business.

‎Olakulehin also served as a federal legislator before ascending Ibadan’s traditional leadership hierarchy.

(NAN)