President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep sadness over the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In a statement by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, earlier today, Tinubu described the late monarch as a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture, and a man of intellect and principle who made significant contributions to education, governance, and national development.
Tinubu also extended his condolences to the royal family, the government, and people of Oyo State, praising Oba Olakulehin’s legacy as one that bridged tradition and modernity.
The President noted that the monarch’s wisdom and moral authority served as a stabilizing force in Ibadanland and the wider Yoruba nation.
According to Tinubu, “Oba Olakulehin was a highly accomplished man of peace, a public servant, and a royal father whose life embodied the highest ideals of leadership, learning, and service”.
The President recalled receiving an invitation to the monarch’s 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations just last week, making his passing even more shocking.
Oba Olakulehin, who was born on July 5, 1935, was a distinguished academic with a master’s degree in administration and economics, and had pursued doctoral studies.
He was known for his passion for research rooted in integrity and public accountability, and had lectured at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and urged the people of Ibadan to take solace in his life and the values he embodied.
