President Bola Tinubu had mourned the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The president said he received with shock the death of Olakulehin who died on Monday, July 7, at the age of 90.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the president extended his heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the government, and people of Oyo State, as well as the entire Ibadanland.
He described the death of the monarch as the loss of a revered traditional ruler, a statesman, and a symbol of peace, wisdom, and continuity.
“President Tinubu mourns the Olubadan and celebrates his remarkable life of service to his people, the state, and the nation.
“President Tinubu describes the late monarch as a highly accomplished man of peace, a public servant, and a royal father whose life embodies the highest ideals of leadership, learning, and service,” Onanuga said.
He also quoted the president saying the late Olakulehin was a man of intellect and principle.
“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle whose contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, and national development. His passing is a significant loss to Ibadanland and the nation.
“Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations. Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary. He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool,” the statement noted.
The president also lauded Oba Olakulehin’s legacy as one that bridged tradition and modernity, adding that his wisdom and moral authority served as a stabilising force in Ibadanland and the wider Yoruba nation.
The president prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and urged the people of Ibadan to take solace in his life and the values he embodied.
