Oba Olakulehin: What to know about the late Olubadan

Oba Owolabi Olalere Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, passed away at age 90 on July 7, 2025, just a day after marking his birthday. His sudden death has drawn national attention, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, traditional rulers, and the Yoruba cultural community.

But beyond his recent passing, who was Oba Olakulehin, and what legacy does he leave behind? Here’s a detailed look at the life, leadership, and legacy of the late Olubadan.

Early Life and Background

Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in the heart of Ibadan, Oyo State. He hailed from the Okugbaja family in Ibadan North-East Local Government Area. His upbringing was deeply rooted in Yoruba traditions and customs, setting the foundation for a future shaped by community service and cultural leadership.

His early years were marked by discipline, humility, and a quiet dedication to Ibadan’s cultural and civic structures. He maintained a low political profile but remained active within traditional frameworks.

Oba Olakulehin’s Rise Through the Chieftaincy System

The late monarch’s journey to the throne followed Ibadan’s distinct succession system, which alternates between two royal lines, the Otun (civil) and Balogun (military) lines. Oba Olakulehin advanced through the Balogun line, holding key titles like Mogaji and eventually becoming Balogun of Ibadan.

He became the heir apparent following the death of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun, in 2024, and was next in line due to his seniority and service to the Ibadan chieftaincy system.

Oba Olakulehin’s Coronation as the 43rd Olubadan

On July 12, 2024, Oba Olakulehin was officially crowned as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. His coronation was a significant cultural event, attended by top political leaders, royal figures, and Ibadan indigenes from across the world.

Though his reign lasted just under a year, it was marked by quiet leadership, stability, and advocacy for cultural preservation. His relationship with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde was cordial and focused on peace and progress.

A Monarch Committed to Tradition

During his time on the throne, Oba Olakulehin championed Yoruba heritage, supporting cultural festivals and promoting community cohesion across the 11 local governments of Ibadan. His reign reinforced the symbolic strength of the Olubadan institution amid modern pressures.

He was known for his measured wisdom and served as a unifying figure for traditional rulers within the region.

Oba Olakulehin’s Legacy and Cultural Impact

Oba Olakulehin’s brief reign was defined by humility, loyalty to tradition, and generational wisdom. Even in a short span, he succeeded in projecting the relevance of traditional leadership in contemporary governance and cultural identity.

He left behind a legacy of calm authority, cultural resilience, and honor, qualities admired by many within and beyond Ibadan.

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Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olakulehin, dies at 90

Succession Process Begins

With his passing, the Olubadan-in-Council will begin the formal succession process. The throne is expected to move to the next most senior chief in the alternate (civil) line, maintaining Ibadan’s orderly and rotational succession system.

Oba Owolabi Olakulehin’s life was a reflection of Ibadan’s deep-rooted values and structure. From his rise through the chieftaincy ladder to his time on the throne, he exemplified the traits of a true traditional ruler, wisdom, humility, and service.

He may be gone, but his influence will echo in the annals of Ibadan’s royal history.