Kingmakers in Ibadan have selected Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan land.
The decision to appoint Oba Olakulehin was reached by the Olubadan-In-Council on Friday, April 12, during a meeting convened by the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. Oba Olakulehin was nominated by the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Gbadamosi Adebimpe, in the absence of Otun Balogun, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, who was expected to make the nomination.
During the meeting, the Ekaarun Olubadan and Ekaarun Balogun were exempted from the decision-making process as the 1957 declaration only recognizes high chiefs from Ekerin Balogun and Ekerin Olubadan as the kingmakers. Speaking to reporters, Oba Olakulehin expressed gratitude to the residents for their prayers and support, saying, “Thank you all for your support and prayers. Good things will never cease in your homes.”
Meanwhile, Chief Ladoja, the convener of the meeting, confirmed the appointment of the new Olubadan, pending the governor’s consent. He stated, “In this meeting, we have concluded the appointment of the new Olubadan subject to the consent of the governor. The letter will go to the governor as soon as possible because it is being prepared by the South East Local Government. We hope that the governor will give his consent as soon as possible. As soon as he gives his consent, we will pick a date for the coronation. We pray that all of us will be alive to witness the day. Thank you for your endurance.”
