From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing him as a man whose intellect and influence reached far beyond the traditional confines of the palace.
Tinubu celebrated the late Oba Olakulehin, who died at the age of 90, as not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage but also a distinguished scholar and statesman whose contributions impacted education, governance, and national development.
“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was a man of intellect and principle whose legacy extended well beyond the palace walls,” President Tinubu said. “His life was a testament to leadership, learning, and service, and his wisdom served as a stabilising force for Ibadanland and the Yoruba nation.”
According to Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President recalled receiving an invitation from the Olubadan just last week to celebrate his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary, moments tragically cut short by his passing. He praised the monarch for upholding the honour and prestige of the Olubadan stool throughout his reign.
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran, Oba Olakulehin rose through Ibadanland’s unique succession system, which alternates leadership between civil and military lines. A distinguished academic, he held a master’s degree in administration and economics and pursued doctoral studies. His passion for research and integrity was evident in his tenure as a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he was known for his principled and progressive scholarship.
President Tinubu lauded the late monarch’s ability to bridge tradition with modernity, emphasizing that his intellectual contributions and moral authority left an indelible mark on both his people and the nation.
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the government, and the people of Oyo State, urging them to find comfort in the enduring values and legacy of the Olubadan.
“May his soul rest in peace,” President Tinubu concluded, “and may his life continue to inspire generations to come.”
