Tinubu mourns Olubadan monarch in moving tribute, praising Oba Olakulehin’s intellect, peacekeeping role, and cultural leadership in Ibadan and beyond
Tinubu mourns Olubadan monarch in an emotional statement that has resonated across Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow at the passing of His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, calling him a monarch of rare intellect, service, and dignity.
The late Olubadan died just days before his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary. His sudden departure shocked many, including the President, who had recently received an invitation to the now-unrealised celebrations.
In a statement issued on Monday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, the President said the news reached him “with deep shock.” His tribute was heartfelt and direct, recognising the monarch’s vast contributions to Ibadanland and Nigeria.
“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle whose contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, and national development,” Tinubu said.
Born on 5 July 1935 in Okugbaja village near Akanran, Oba Olakulehin’s life followed a distinguished path. His accession to the throne came in March 2024, succeeding Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun.
He rose through Ibadan’s traditional alternating succession system, advancing via the civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) lines.
His reign, though brief, was marked by wisdom, patience, and moral authority. The President described the Olubadan as “a highly accomplished man of peace, a public servant, and a royal father whose life embodies the highest ideals of leadership, learning, and service.”
The monarch was widely admired for his academic and intellectual achievements. He held a master’s degree in administration and economics and pursued doctoral studies. As a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he inspired generations with his principle-driven teachings and clear sense of purpose.
Tinubu added that Oba Olakulehin’s moral authority “served as a stabilising force in Ibadanland and the wider Yoruba nation,” emphasising his role as both a spiritual leader and a bridge between tradition and modernity.
“Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations. Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary,” the President recalled.
“He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool.”
Across Ibadan and the Yoruba-speaking regions, tributes have poured in. Many described him as a monarch who promoted unity, development, and peace. His reign, though short, left a lasting impact on both the cultural and civic spheres.
“He told me once, ‘Leadership is not about holding a title. It is about bearing responsibility with courage,’” said a local historian who met the king during a cultural seminar. “That message stayed with me. He lived it.”
The President called on the people of Ibadan to find strength in the legacy left behind by their king. Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of Oba Olakulehin’s soul and urged reflection on the values he exemplified throughout his life.
The nation will remember the Olubadan not only for his ceremonial role but for his intellect, humility, and statesmanship. His ability to balance tradition with intellectual rigor made him stand out in a landscape often dominated by formality over substance.
Tinubu mourns Olubadan monarch not just as a king, but as a symbol of cultural pride, scholarly excellence, and unwavering leadership. His absence will be felt deeply, but his legacy will endure for generations.
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