Pius Nsabe
The League of Veteran Journalists, Oyo State, has extended its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Ige Olakulehin, the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the entire people of Ibadanland over the monarch’s transition to eternal glory.
In a condolence message jointly signed by the League’s Chairman, Mr. Banji Ogundele, and its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bisi Bakare, and made available to The Journal Nigeria on Wednesday, the group described the monarch’s passing as a profound loss, noting that his life and reign embodied the timeless truth that “no matter how long it takes, when God works, it’s always worth the wait.”
Reflecting on the challenges that preceded Oba Olakulehin’s ascension to the throne, the League remarked that his eventual enthronement was a triumph of perseverance and divine timing.
The statement, issued in Ibadan, expressed shock and dismay at the monarch’s demise, particularly coming just days after his 90th birthday celebration, which was marked with pomp and pageantry. Preparations were reportedly underway for his first anniversary on the throne.
The League commended Oba Olakulehin for the wisdom and dignity with which he ruled, and acknowledged the significant milestones of his reign—particularly his move into the newly constructed Imperial Palace at Oke-Are, the first Olubadan to do so.
According to the League, the late monarch drew from his wealth of experience in the Nigerian Army and the civil service to promote peace, development, and unity in Ibadanland.
“Though a short reign, it was purposeful, peaceful and remarkable, full of love, wisdom, and generosity,” the statement read.
The League prayed for the peaceful repose of the late monarch’s soul and asked God to grant his family, Governor Makinde, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the entire Ibadan community at home and in the Diaspora the strength to bear the loss.
Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin’s death on Monday, July 7, came just two days after he marked his 90th birthday. He was officially presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on July 12, 2024, becoming the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.