Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has presented the Staff of Office to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, marking his ascension as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The event, attended by prominent figures including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu, celebrated the enduring traditions of the Ibadan monarchy.
President Tinubu commended the adherence to traditional protocols in the appointment, highlighting the historical significance of the Olubadan dynasty since 1851.
He expressed hope that Oba Olakulehin’s leadership would foster unity and resilience in Ibadan and beyond.
“I would like to extend my warm congratulations to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Olakulehin on his ascension to the throne of his ancestors.
“Oba Olakulehin’s journey to the throne is a truly remarkable story. He became the Mogaji of the family in 1983 during the reign of Olubadan Asanike and began his journey to this revered throne of Olubadan as the Jagun Balogun in 1986.
It took him 38 years and many steps before fate thrust him to the zenith of the ladder.”
“This ceremony heralds another epoch in the history of this highly regarded traditional institution in Yorubaland, indeed in Nigeria and beyond.What we are celebrating today is not just the ascension of Kabiyesi Olakulehin but the enduring tradition and resilience of the Ibadan monarchy”.
“The nation remains grateful for this abiding legacy of the Olubadan dynasty which has been a beacon of stability with its unique succession route to the throne, a tradition established since 1851.
“The whole country can learn from this rancour-free Ibadan kingship model.
We must recognize the immense responsibility that comes with this sacred office, and we pray that God will grant Your Majesty wisdom, guidance, and strength to lead the Ibadan people”.
“As the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I am proud to be part of this celebration, I am confident that Your Majesty will continue to uphold the tradition and values that have made Ibadan a symbol of resilience and progress. As we look to the future, we acknowledge that there are challenges ahead. But I am convinced that with Your Majesty’s leadership and the cooperation of all chiefs, sons and daughters of Ibadan and the residents, we can
overcome these challenges and together build a brighter future for our city and our nation.”
“Therefore, I take this opportunity to pray for Your Majesty’s long tenure on the throne. May God grant you wisdom to make decisions that benefit all the people of Ibadan City and Nigeria as a whole. May you enjoy good health and strength to discharge your duties with dignity and integrity.”
“I also take this moment to remind us that our collective prosperity is tied to our ability to work together in harmony. As we celebrate this coronation, let us not forget the importance of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect. Let us continue to strive for peace and understanding among ourselves so that our great city may continue to blossom.” Tinubu said.
Governor Makinde lauded the event as a testament to the resilience of the Ibadan people, while the newly crowned monarch thanked dignitaries and supporters for their contributions to his installation.
In his acceptance speech as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr. Owolabi Olakulehin expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Babatunde Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
He also thanked Ibadan indigenes and governors from other Southwest states, including Ondo, Osun, Ogun, and Lagos, for their significant support in formalizing his installation.
The new monarch also offered prayers for the progress and development of Ibadanland during his reign.
While speaking on behalf of the Southern Governors at the event, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said the ceremony marked essence of monarchial tradition stability of the southern region for years.
The state commissioner for Local Government And Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo while appreciating every citizen of the state, described them instrumental to the success of the coronation ceremony.
Other dignitaries at the event include the Honorable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Oyo State Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, Ondo State Governor, ably represented by his deputy Mrs Olaide Adelami, Osun state Governor represented by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, Lagos State, Mr Tayo Ayinde represented the Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu, The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Babatunde Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, Aseyin of Iseyin,Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola, PDP Deputy National Chiarman (South), Ambassador Taofik Arapaja, Oyo State former Deputy Governor, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarunmi, Professor Soji Adejumo, Elder Wole Oyelese, Dr Saka Balogun, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande, Chief Niyi Akintola SAN, Chief Olusola Ayandele.
In addition ,are Oyo State Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Ademola Ojo, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja, Senator Olufemi Lanlehin, Hon Dhikrulahi Olajide, Hon Abass Adigun, the Babaloja General of Oyo State Alhaji Yekini Abass, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, Kwara and Delta, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chief Adebayo Oyero, Secretary to the state government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo
Report by Adeleke Maria for IbadanCity ANNOUNCER
