The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has mourned the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, saying that the nation lost an asset.
Oba Olakulehin’s death occurred two days after he celebrated his 90th birthday and at a time when activities to mark his first coronation anniversary were in top gear.
The late Oba Olakulehin received the staff of office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Olawunmi Ojo, Iba Adams described the late monarch as a foremost traditional ruler, a custodian of culture and tradition, and a revered elder statesman who devoted his life to serving humanity and preserving Yoruba tradition, identity, and values.
He commiserated with the family of the late Oba Olakulehin, the Oyo State government and the good people of Ibadanland on the demise of the revered monarch.
Iba Adams noted that though Oba Olakulehin’s reign was short, his time on the throne was marked by unparalleled level of peace within Ibadanland, with sons and daughters of the land experiencing progress on many fronts.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland recalled that many chieftaincy crises were resolved by the late Olubadan, just as he stopped the activities of land-grabbers, thereby preventing the recurring breakdown of law and order.
He stressed that the late monarch had a very good disposition towards the Oyo State government and maintained a good relationship with other traditional rulers, ensuring a seamless inter-relationship which led to meaningful development within Ibadanland.
Iba Adams recalled the warm reception given to members of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) while on a courtesy visit to his palace in January. Members of OPU were in Ibadan at the time for the association’s World Congress.
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the late traditional ruler. He also prayed for strength for his family and loved ones as they mourn the departed monarch.
