Makinde Mourns Olubadan, Assures Family Of Government Support, Befitting Burial

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED 

IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA – Oyo State Governor, Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed deep condolences to the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, who passed away early Sunday morning, July 6, 2025.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde commiserated with the royal family and the people of Ibadan following the monarch’s passing.

The governor received a delegation from the Olakulehin family at his office in Ibadan, where he reaffirmed the government’s support to the bereaved family and assured that the late monarch would be given a befitting burial.

The delegation included the former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, Chief Bayo Oyero; the late monarch’s younger brother, Mr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin; and his son, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.

Addressing the delegation, Governor Makinde said: “We don’t always want them to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time.

“I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.

“I will ask all members of the family to take heart. Coincidentally, today marks the 13th year since my father passed on. So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength.”

Earlier, Chief Bayo Oyero formally informed the governor of the monarch’s passing and expressed gratitude for the government’s support during Oba Olakulehin’s reign.

“We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.

“We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversy before he ascended the throne, you approved his appointment and supported his reign.

“The historic coronation your administration organized remains unforgettable”,
Chief Oyero posited.

Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, ascended the throne in 2024 and celebrated his 90th birthday just a day before his passing, on July 5, 2025.

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