The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90.
The revered monarch died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, amid ongoing celebrations marking his 90th birthday and the first anniversary of his coronation.
Sources close to the palace confirmed the monarch’s passing to The PUNCH Online, noting that his death occurred just as the city was preparing to celebrate his remarkable milestones. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne following the death of his predecessor, the late Oba Lekan Balogun, and was officially crowned as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
READ ALSO: Gov. Makinde Breaks Silence On Olubadan Stool, Warns Against Disharmony
His reign, though relatively short, was marked by a deep commitment to the preservation of Yoruba culture, the unity of Ibadanland, and the promotion of peace and development in Oyo State.
A respected elder statesman and traditional ruler, Oba Olakulehin had a distinguished public service career before mounting the throne, and was widely regarded as a stabilizing figure within the Ibadan traditional council.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Olubadan-in-Council later.