Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin, passes away

Ibadanland is in mourning following the passing of its traditional ruler, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025.

The monarch, who only recently celebrated his 90th birthday on July 5, had spent just a year on the revered throne.

Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland in July 2024, following the death of his predecessor, Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who passed away at the age of 81 on March 14, 2024.

He was formally presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on July 12, 2024, marking the official beginning of his reign as Olubadan.

A respected figure in Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy, Oba Olakulehin rose through the chieftaincy line from the Balogun Olubadan lineage. His brief tenure as king was marked by efforts to promote unity and cultural preservation within Ibadanland.