The late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, was on Friday laid to rest amid fanfare at St. Peter’s Cathedral Church, Aremo, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Governor Seyi Makinde, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede (represented by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Mechanised Division, Maj. Gen. Obina Onubogwu), and other notable Nigerians paid glowing tributes to the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025.
A retired Major in the Nigerian Army, the late monarch was accorded full military honours, which included the presentation of the Nigerian flag to his family and a ceremonial gun salute to mark his final departure.
While celebrating the late monarch’s profound impact on the Ibadan community and beyond, the clergyman reflected on his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people, highlighting how his reign was marked by a dedication to peace, unity, and cultural preservation.
In his sermon, the Archbishop of Ibadan Province and Bishop of the Ibadan North Diocese, Most Rev’d Williams Aladekugbe, urged the congregation to reflect on the quality of their lives and refrain from passing judgement on others.
Quoting 2 Corinthians 5:10, he said:“Let us be mindful of the lives we live and be wary of judging others, especially when we do not have the full facts. Take heed that you do not spend today in a way that may ruin your tomorrow. Remember, we shall all give an account to our Creator.”.
Aladekugbe said Oba Olakulehin’s leadership was characterised by compassion and wisdom, qualities that endeared him to all who knew him.
He emphasised the legacy of service that the late monarch left behind, acknowledging Oba Olakulehin’s efforts in fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups within the community, which played a crucial role in maintaining harmony in a rapidly changing world.
The bishop noted that the monarch’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive society would continue to inspire future generations.
Aladekugbe described the late Oba Olakulehin as “a leader of grace, with a heart full of compassion.”
He added:“Kabiyesi was a great father to all in Ibadanland, a harbinger of inclusiveness and unity.He was a devoted Christian and a powerful influence in the lives of his subjects, imparting strong values and generosity.”
“During his reign, Ibadanland enjoyed peaceful coexistence and witnessed unprecedented development. The traditional institution also underwent significant transformation, elevating it to greater heights.
His departure is an irreparable loss, but we take solace in knowing he lived a life of service to God and humanity, leaving behind enduring legacies.”
Other dignitaries at the burial included the Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; former Deputy Governor, Ahmed Gbadamosi; former Minister of Steel and Power, Wole Oyelese; Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (South), Taofeek Arapaja; members of the Olubadan-in-Council led by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes led by President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole; Mogajis (family heads); Baales; military officers; members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun; and several others.
The final burial rite has now cleared the way for the enthronement process of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, to begin in full swing after his nomination and endorsement by kingmakers.
The preparation by the state government, kingmakers, and the emerging ruling house.
