Culture

Olubadan Oba Olakulehin Dead Two Days After 90th Birthday

Published

1 year ago

July 7, 2025

Olubadan Oba Olakulehin dead at 90, just two days after marking his birthday and one year on the throne of Ibadanland. Nigeria mourns a respected monarch

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has died at the age of 90, just two days after celebrating his milestone birthday and the first anniversary of his coronation.

Also read: President Tinubu Celebrates Olubadan at 90 Lauds Leadership Legacy

The revered monarch passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, a year after ascending the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

His passing comes as a shock to many, particularly after recent celebrations marked both his 90th birthday and one year on the throne.

Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin became Olubadan in July 2024, following the death of his predecessor, Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who passed away at 81.

Prior to becoming Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin held the title of Balogun Olubadan, positioning him next in line to the throne under the Ibadan traditional succession system.

His installation was formally recognised by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who presented him with the staff of office on July 12, 2024.

Tributes have been pouring in from across Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu, who only days ago celebrated the monarch’s 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary, is among those expressing deep sorrow.

Oba Olakulehin’s reign may have been short, but it was rich with wisdom, peace, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Ibadan.

In a statement released through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Oba Olakulehin as a symbol of “wisdom, peace, and enduring leadership.”

“Your Imperial Majesty, Oba Olakulehin, as you mark nine decades of a life well lived in service, sacrifice, and stewardship, and on your first anniversary on the throne of your forefathers, we honour not only your longevity but also your immense contributions to community development and national unity,” President Tinubu said in his birthday tribute.

The monarch’s reign, though brief, was lauded for upholding Yoruba culture and traditions and promoting unity within Ibadan and beyond. He was described as a custodian of culture, a respected elder statesman, and a man of deep values who served with dignity and dedication.

His passing has left a deep void in the traditional institution of Ibadanland. Many residents and leaders have described his death as a monumental loss to Yoruba heritage and the cultural identity of Oyo State.

Also read: Eko Fiesta 2025: Lagos gears up for major entertainment, economic boost

Arrangements for his burial and the selection process for his successor are expected to be announced by the Olubadan-in-Council in the coming days.

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Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

3 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Mariam Balogun

The contemporary art and photography exhibition “Wake Up!” is back again for a second edition.

Curated by Awele Onwordi, Wake Up! 2 exhibition pays homage to the Nigerian youth and burgeoning street culture which many of its contributing artists reference in their works.

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Titled “Young, Wild, Free”, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, resilience, freedom and cultural influence found in Nigerian youth.

Taking aim at societal issues and economic concerns, the exhibit reflects the youth and their refusal to compromise or bow despite all the challenges stacked against them while charting youth culture through art, music, fashion, skateboarding, photography and community.

The exhibition will be held, once again, at the Angel and Muse Gallery at 25 Sumbo Jibowu street off Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.

It will open on Saturday 5 September 2026 and will run until 11 September 2026
This second edition which focuses on celebrating, nurturing and exploring artistic practices rooted in youth and street culture will feature works from DENCITY and SUPERGLIDER HOUSE.

Exhibiting artists include Ajilore Kehinde – their work is deeply influenced by Nigerian street culture and works of other artists like Slawn, Peters Ejiro, etc, Chuka Onwordi – graphic designer who embodies themes of death, melancholy and beauty in his works, ZIDYEP – Abuja based creative whose works move between digital and physical spaces through art, graphic design and air brushing , Franklyn Okoye – graphic designer and artist whose works explore themes of identity and hyper-reality, Awele Onwordi – founder & curator of WAKE UP and multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans character art, creative logo design, album covers and more , Oluchi Kogolo – digital illustrator whose work explores street culture, personality and storytelling through a raw and playful visual style and Kozetuo Apeji – multidisciplinary artists who work explores experimental approaches to problem solving through both digital and traditional art forms.

Commenting on the exhibition in her curatorial statement, Awele noted that “despite economic instability, limited opportunities and socio-political challenges, Nigerian youth continue to shape culture through music, fashion, art, skateboarding, raves, photography and community.”

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Continuing and harping on the raison d’etre of the exhibition she said, “Young, Wild and Free exists to celebrate Nigerian youth while also creating a platform that supports and amplifies them.”