The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed on at the age of 90. He joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.
His death comes exactly one year after ascending the throne.
Former Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Toye Arulogun, confirmed the monarch’s passing, noting that an official statement would be released soon.
Facts About the Late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin:
- Birth and Family: Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, to Pa Ishola-Okin Owolabi and Madam Adunola Aweni Ope Ajilaran Omoyoade Owolabi in Okugbaja village, Ita Baale near Akanran, in present-day Ibadan North East LGA, Oyo State.
- Title: He was the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
- Early Education: He began his education at St. James Primary School, Oke Akaran, and later attended Islamic School, Odoiye. He eventually completed his primary education at St. Peter Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan.
- Teaching Career: After primary school, he briefly worked as a primary school teacher in Wakajaiye, Akobo area of Ibadan.
- Technical Studies: He later enrolled at Yaba Technical Institute to study printing and artwork.
- Civil Service and Further Education: In 1959, he joined the Western Region Ministry of Works as a third-class clerk while studying at Yaba College of Technology, where he earned OND and HND in Building.
- Military Career: In 1970, he enlisted in the Nigerian Army through the Direct Short Service Commission, serving in the Corps of Engineers and rising to the rank of Major before retiring in 1979.
- Leadership Roles in the Army: He held commanding positions in maintenance regiments across Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos.
- Business Ventures: After his retirement, he established several businesses including FAKOL Nigeria Ltd (a construction firm), Olakulehin Press (later Solid Prints), and FAKOL Bakery, all based in Ibadan.
- Political Career: In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East. He also served as Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army.
- Path to the Throne: His traditional leadership journey began in 1983 when he became the Mogaji of the Ige Olakulehin family of Ita-Baale Olugbode, Ibadan. He later rose through the ranks to become the Balogun of Ibadanland, one of the two most senior chieftaincy titles in the city.