Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), assuring the late monarch’s family and the people of Ibadanland of the state government’s unwavering support and commitment to giving the departed royal a befitting burial.
Governor Makinde made this known while receiving a delegation from the Olakulehin family at the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, on Monday morning. The delegation included the Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland and former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero; the monarch’s younger brother, Mr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin; and his son, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
While addressing the delegation, the governor described Oba Olakulehin as a revered monarch whose transition, though painful, was part of the divine order of life.
“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,” Makinde said. “I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stand by the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.”
He further urged the immediate family to remain strong, recalling that July 7 also marked the 13th anniversary of his own father’s passing. “So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength,” he added.
Earlier, Chief Oyero formally informed the governor of the monarch’s passing, expressing appreciation to Governor Makinde for his support before and during Oba Olakulehin’s reign.
“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, who passed away early this morning,” Chief Oyero said.
He also acknowledged the governor’s decisive role in approving the ascension of Oba Olakulehin despite earlier controversies, and commended the state for organising a memorable coronation ceremony in his honour.
Oba Olakulehin, who turned 90 on July 5, 2025, ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland in July 2024. His one-year reign was marked by commitment to unity and cultural preservation in Ibadan.
