…Royal drummers Relocate To Ladoja’s Residence As Ibadan Prepares For Transition
The ancient city of Ibadan has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.
The monarch’s passing, which came barely a week to the first anniversary of his coronation, has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the country, with President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, and others paying glowing tributes to the late traditional ruler.
Oba Olakulehin, who ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, was the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. He died on Monday, July 7, 2025, at his Alalubosa residence, surrounded by family and loyalists. The city immediately slipped into grief, with mourners trooping to his residence in disbelief.
Royal Transition Begins
In line with the customs of Ibadan’s unique ascension system, palace drummers and royal aides have already relocated to the Bodija residence of the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who is next in line to ascend the throne.
The traditional protocol mirrors what happened after the demise of Oba Lekan Balogun in March 2024, when the drummers moved to Olakulehin’s home pending formal enthronement.
Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and a prominent figure in Ibadan’s political and cultural life, is expected to be crowned the next Olubadan after the Olubadan-in-Council completes necessary rites.
A Life of Distinguished Service
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran, Oba Olakulehin’s life was one of service in education, the military, public service, and traditional leadership. He began his career as a teacher before joining the Ministry of Works in 1959. He later enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1970 and rose to the rank of Major, serving under General Olusegun Obasanjo before voluntarily retiring in 1979.
He was also a politician, representing Ibadan South East in the House of Representatives in 1992.
Oba Olakulehin’s enthronement in 2024 followed over four decades of steady rise through the civil line of the Olubadan chieftaincy system. His brief reign was described by many as peaceful and symbolic of continuity.
Tinubu, Makinde, Others React
President Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Bayo Onanuga, described the late monarch as “a symbol of peace, wisdom, and national service.”
He said: “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 added that the Olubadan’s passing was a personal shock, noting that he had received an invitation to the monarch’s birthday and coronation anniversary days before the death.
Governor Makinde, while receiving a delegation from the Olakulehin family, including Bayo Oyero, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi, and Mr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin, pledged the full support of the state government for a befitting burial.
“We don’t always want them to go. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period,” Makinde said. “We will play our part as a government to ensure Kabiyesi is given the honour he deserves.”
Also mourning the monarch, the Sultan of Sokoto, in a message by the Secretary of the Sultanate Council, Alhaji Sai’idu Maccido, described Olakulehin as a “remarkable leader and good-hearted giant in thought and action.”
He noted that although the monarch’s reign lasted just a year, his impact would be long remembered across Nigeria.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also described the Olubadan as “urbane, cosmopolitan and deeply knowledgeable in Yoruba culture and tradition,” adding that his reign fostered unity and development.
Amosun: “A Purposeful Reign”
Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, expressed shock at the monarch’s passing, describing him as “an advocate of peace and unity who led with purpose.”
He highlighted the monarch’s past roles as a teacher, soldier, and lawmaker, describing his life as one marked by dedication to national progress and cultural preservation.
Emotional Farewell
At the late monarch’s Alalubosa home, emotions ran high as sympathisers wept and offered prayers. Former Information Commissioner Toye Arulogun said the monarch’s death was not a time for sorrow but a celebration of a life well lived.
“He ascended the throne after a 43-year journey and died just after turning 90. This is not mourning. It’s a double celebration,” Arulogun said.
What Next for Ibadan?
As the Olubadan-in-Council prepares to meet, attention has now shifted to High Chief Rashidi Ladoja. Barring any surprises, he will be named the next Olubadan, continuing Ibadan’s age-long rotational leadership system.
For now, the people of Ibadan mourn the loss of a monarch many regarded as a bridge between tradition and modernity — a leader who wore the crown with honour, dignity, and calm purpose.
Burial Plans Underway
The Oyo State Government is expected to announce formal burial arrangements in the coming days, with dignitaries from across the country expected to attend.
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is survived by wives, children, and grandchildren.
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