Finally, Olakulehin Mounts Throne As 42nd Olubadan, Governor Makinde Presents Staff Of Office

By Akinwale Kasali

Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, 89,  has mounted the Throne of his forebears as the New Olubadan of Ibadan Land.

Olakulehin has been crowned the 42nd Olubadan. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday, presented the Staff of Office and the Instrument of Office to him.

The installation of the new Olubadan brings an end to the Obaship tussle that sprung up after the demise of the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, who joined his forefathers at the age of 81. He reigned for only two years.

The coronation of the New Olubadan took place at the ancient Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the State Capital.

“By the power conferred upon me as the Governor by sub-sections (1) and (2) of Section 20 of the Chiefs Law Cap 28 Vol.1 Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000, I hereby present the Instrument/Staff of Office, which symbolises your authority as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin”, Governor Makinde said.

Dignitaries at the coronation include the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Oyo State Governor, Rashidi Ladoja; Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, who represented President Bola Tinubu, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun,  Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal,  Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, among others.