The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90, just days after celebrating his landmark birthday and the first anniversary of his reign. The revered monarch died in the early hours of Monday, a family source confirmed.
Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, ascended the ancient throne of Ibadan on June 14, 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun. His brief but significant reign was marked by efforts to preserve Yoruba culture and promote the unity of the Ibadan people.
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village, Ita Baale, near Akanran in Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Olakulehin was deeply rooted in the cultural and historical traditions of the Yoruba people. His life’s journey spanned education, military service, entrepreneurship, and politics—earning him a place among Nigeria’s most versatile and respected elders.
He began his education at St. James Primary School, Oke Akaran, and continued at the Islamic School, Odoiye, and St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan. He later pursued vocational training in printing and artwork at Yaba Technical Institute.
In 1970, Olakulehin joined the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant through a Direct Short Service Commission. He served in various leadership roles across Nigeria, rising to the rank of Major before retiring in 1979. His post-military years were dedicated to business and public service. He established FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction company, as well as Olakunlehin Press (later Solid Prints) and FAKOL Bakery, all based in Ibadan.
Venturing into politics, he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1992 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Constituency. He notably served as Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army, where his military background proved instrumental.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement released just days ago to commemorate the monarch’s 90th birthday and the anniversary of his coronation, praised Oba Olakulehin as “a foremost traditional ruler, custodian of culture, and elder statesman who devoted his life to service and to preserving Yoruba identity and values.”
As Ibadan mourns the passing of a respected leader, tributes have begun pouring in from political, traditional, and religious leaders across Nigeria. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the royal family and the Ibadan Traditional Council in the coming days.
Oba Olakulehin is remembered for his wisdom, humility, and lifelong dedication to Ibadan, Yoruba heritage, and national service.
