Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and one year after ascending the throne on July 12, 2024.
His death in Ibadan, Oyo State, marks the end of a brief but impactful reign dedicated to peace, unity, and cultural preservation.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran, Oba Olakulehin rose through Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system.
Starting as Mogaji of the Ige Olakulehin Family in 1983, he advanced to Balogun Olubadan before becoming Olubadan.
He succeeded Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, who died on March 14, 2024, at 81. On July 12, 2024, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented him with the staff of office at Mapo Hall in a ceremony attended by dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu.
Oba Olakulehin’s reign was celebrated for fostering harmony and preserving Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.
Political and Traditional Legacy
Before his royal role, Oba Olakulehin was a notable figure in Nigeria’s Second Republic, serving as a House of Representatives member and an ally of Ibadan political icon Chief Lamidi Adedibu.
Known for his humility and grassroots connection, he strengthened ties between traditional rulers and the Oyo State government, earning praise as a “symbol of unity” from the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
His 90th birthday, coinciding with his coronation anniversary, drew tributes from President Tinubu, Governor Makinde, and Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu for his wisdom and contributions to Ibadan’s progress.
Tributes and Mourning
Oba Olakulehin’s passing has sparked widespread grief in Ibadan. President Tinubu, in a July 5 statement, described him as a “custodian of Yoruba tradition” whose reign embodied “peace, prosperity, and pride.”
Social media posts reflected admiration for his milestone of reaching 90 and becoming Olubadan after a long journey.
The Oyo State government has not yet announced funeral arrangements, but a Category 2 State Funeral with military honors is anticipated, reflecting his stature.
Overcoming Health Controversies
Oba Olakulehin’s 2024 ascension faced scrutiny over his health due to his age, with false death rumors circulating in March 2025.
Oyo State officials, including Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Wasiu Olatunbosun and the Olubadan’s Chief Press Secretary Gbenga Ayoade, refuted these claims, confirming the monarch was “hale and hearty.”
His public appearances and resilience dispelled doubts, reinforcing his reputation as a steadfast leader.
Looking Ahead
Oba Olakulehin’s death leaves a significant void in Ibadan’s traditional leadership.
The Ibadan chieftaincy system’s clear succession process, alternating between civil and military lines, points to Oba Rasheed Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor, as the likely next Olubadan.
As Ibadan mourns, Oba Olakulehin’s legacy of unity, cultural stewardship, and dedicated service will continue to inspire the community.
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