Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, died at 90 on Monday, paving the way for former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja to ascend the throne, following Ibadan’s rotational succession system.
Olakulehin, born July 5, 1935, passed away just days after his 90th birthday, having served one year as Olubadan after receiving the staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024. His death was formally announced to Makinde by a family delegation.
Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system alternates between the Otun (civil) and Balogun (military) lines. Olakulehin, from the Balogun line, is succeeded by Ladoja, the highest-ranking Otun Olubadan chief, who is set to become the 44th Olubadan pending council and state approval.
Ladoja, born September 25, 1944, accepted the ceremonial beaded crown in August 2024, a requirement under the revised chieftaincy law. The former governor, who served from 2003 to 2007, expressed readiness to ascend, stating, “By the grace of God, I will become Olubadan.”
Jubilation erupted at Ladoja’s Bodija residence as royal drummers signaled his anticipated succession, though he was abroad at the time. President Tinubu and other leaders mourned Olakulehin, praising his peaceful reign and contributions to Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
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