Olubadan: Ambode, Kalu, Soun mourn

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Wednesday, extended heartfelt commiserations to the people of Ibadan and Oyo State Government over the death of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade 1.
Oba Odulana, who was born on April 14, 1914 and became the Olubadan in July 2007, passed on at the age of 101 on Tuesday evening in his palace in the Monatan area of Ibadan.
The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, described the late monarch as a well accomplished Nigerian, who cut his teeth in various positions of office he occupied during his hay days.
“Oba Odulana was an accomplished Nigerian in the true sense of the word. He gave his all to serve the country in various capacities. He was a seasoned civil servant and a thoroughbred politician which eventually saw him become a Minister in the First Republic.
“His contributions towards the establishment of both primary and secondary schools in various parts of the old Western Region of Nigeria cannot be forgotten in a hurry”, Ambode said.
While commiserating with the family of the late traditional ruler and the people of the state, he urged them to take solace in the fact that the deceased was a devout Christian, humanist and respected traditional ruler who gave his life to the service of God and to humanity.
“He lived a fulfilled life and will be remembered as a peace loving monarch who served his people selflessly until his glorious exit. He will be sorely missed for his wise counsel and his passion for unity.
“On behalf of the good people of Lagos State, I wish to express our heartfelt condolence to the people of Oyo State, especially the people of Ibadan over the death of this highly respected monarch. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” the governor said.
Also, former governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu, commiserated with the people of Ibadan over the demise of the Olubadan.
According to the frontline businessman, Oba Odugade will be remembered for his selflessness, forthrightness and commitment to a just and fair society, adding that his reign brought unprecedented development to the ancient city of Ibadan.
In a statement by his Special Adviser, Prince Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said: “The passing of Oba Odulana Odugade is a colossal loss to Oyo State and the nation at large considering his contributions to national development.
“As a foremost traditional ruler of a cosmopolitan city, he used his vast wisdom and contacts to promote peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups in his domain.
“He was an elder statesman per excellence and a patriotic Nigerian, who placed people’s interest above personal pursuits in all his endeavours.
“It is unfortunate that he died at a time the nation needed his wise counsel on national issues.
“He will be remembered for leaving behind a good legacy for his successor and family members to uphold.
“A rare gem is gone”, Kalu remarked.
The former governor urged the family of the late monarch to take solace in the fact that their patriarch did not just live long but lived a purposeful life committed to mankind.
While sympathizing with the government and people of Oyo State, Kalu prayed God to grant the late monarch a blissful rest and also give his family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.
The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade 111, expressed sadness over the demise of the Ibadan monarch.
The paramount ruler noted that the late monarch demonstrated selfless leadership qualities in different capacities in his lifetime.
According to a statement by his Private Secretary, Toyin Ajamu, Oba Oyewumi said: “I was pained when I heard the news of the passing of Oba Odulana Odugade, Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“He was a symbol of peace among his colleagues and subjects.
“Oba Odugade was committed to the welfare of his people.
“The ancient city of Ibadan witnessed robust development during his reign.
“His contribution to socio-political development of the country is commendable.
“Above all, he lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation”, Soun added.
Oba Oyewumi urged the Olubadan-in-waiting to uphold the good legacy of the late monarch.
While commiserating with the government and people of Oyo State, Olubadan-in-Council, and the deceased’s family, he prayed God to grant the late traditional ruler eternal rest.