Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has pledged full state support and a befitting burial for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away early Tuesday at the age of 90.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the late monarch’s family at the Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan. The delegation included the former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, Chief Bayo Oyero; the late monarch’s younger brother, Mr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin; and his son, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
Governor Makinde, while commiserating with the family, described the passing of the revered traditional ruler as a great loss not only to the family but to the entire Ibadanland and Oyo State at large.
“We don’t always want them to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time,” the governor said.
“I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.”
He added a personal note of reflection, saying, “Coincidentally, today marks the 13th year since my father passed on. So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength.”
Earlier, Chief Oyero officially announced the monarch’s passing and expressed the family’s gratitude to the governor and his administration.
“We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing away of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I,” Oyero said.
He lauded the Makinde administration for its unwavering support during the monarch’s reign, despite initial controversies before his ascension.
“In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension. We also thank your government for the historic coronation ceremony you organized for him,” he said.
Oba Olakulehin celebrated his 90th birthday on July 5, 2024, and was crowned the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland shortly after. His one-year reign, though brief, was marked by reverence and a unifying spirit for Ibadan indigenes.
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