The Agbekoya Society of Nigeria, a group dedicated to the protection of Yoruba heritage, has mourned the death of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, joined his ancestors at the age of 90.
The group’s National President, Mr Okikiola Kamorudeen, in a condolence message in Lagos on Monday, described the late traditional ruler as a man of peace, wisdom, and strength.
It stated that the late royal father served Ibadanland with dignity and unshakable commitment to unity, traditional values, and progress.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Olubadan died early on Monday morning, after celebrating his 90th birthday on Saturday.
He ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, following his coronation by Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, serving as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“Although his time on the throne was relatively short, Oba Olakulehin’s reign was marked by tranquility, maturity, and respect for tradition.
“His death is a monumental loss not only to Ibadanland, but to the entire Yoruba nation.
“The Agbekoya Society of Nigeria mourns alongside the people of Ibadanland, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII), and the Oyo State Government.
“We pray for the peaceful repose of the royal father’s soul and for strength to the royal family and people he left behind,”he said.
Kamorudeen said the society congratulated Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, who is next in line to ascend the throne of the Olubadan.
He said that Agbekoya Society also extends warm congratulations to Oba Eddy Oyewole, on his recent and well-deserved elevation to the position of Otun Olubadan of Ibadan land.
Kamorudeen said his promotion was a testament to his dedication and the strength of the time-tested succession structure of the Olubadan system.
“The society emphasises the importance of unity, orderliness, and adherence to tradition as Ibadan enters this sacred period of transition,” he said.
Kamorudeen urged all stakeholders traditional leaders, political actors, community leaders, and the general public to uphold the sanctity of the process and resist any attempts to sow division or disruption.
He said that Ibadanland must remain united and the Yoruba heritage must remain unshaken while Agbekoya would continue to defend the land and the truth. (NAN)
