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)