Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed sorrow over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The monarch, who recently marked his 90th birthday, passed away in the early hours of Monday in Ibadan, according to information from a family member.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Olakulehin, passes on at 90
Shortly after the news of the monarch’s death broke, Governor Makinde assured that the state government would actively support the bereaved family and ensure the late Olubadan receives a dignified farewell.
“I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial,” the governor said while receiving a family delegation.
The visiting delegation included notable figures such as Chief Bayo Oyero, a former president-general of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and the Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland; the monarch’s younger brother, Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin; and his son, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
In his message of comfort, Makinde urged the family to remain strong during this period of mourning, sharing a personal memory of his own loss.
“I will ask all the members of the family to take heart. Coincidentally, today marks the 13th year since my father passed on. So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength.
“We don’t always want them to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period,” he added.
Speaking earlier during the visit, Chief Oyero officially informed the governor of the monarch’s passing, stating: “We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing away of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, who passed away early this morning.
“We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension to the imperial throne of Ibadanland.
“We want to thank your government for all you have done, including a remarkable, historic coronation ceremony, which the government did for him.”
Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland roughly a year ago.
