JUST IN: Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun passes away two years after ascending throne
The 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, has died.
His age was 81.
NewsClick Nigeria gathered that the first-class monarch died at the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan a few hours after he was admitted into the tertiary health facility on Thursday night.
On March 11, 2022, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented Oba Balogun with the Staff of Office, and he spent two years on his forefathers’ throne. He ascended the throne after the demise of Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Oguguniso III. Adetunji, 93, had died on January 2, 2022, after reigning from March 4, 2016.
In a statement released on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde confirmed the king’s demise and noted his major achievements to Ibadanland throughout his brief reign of just over two years.
He described the late monarch as a towering figure akin to an Iroko tree while extending his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council, and the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
“The passing of Oba Dr. Balogun marks the end of an era for Ibadanland, leaving behind a profound void in its rich history and heritage.”
He further prayed for the peaceful repose of Oba Balogun’s soul and acknowledged his enduring legacy as a beacon of royal excellence and accomplishment.
The late Olubadan was born on October 18, 1942.
The cause of the death of the king is unknow as of the time of filing this report.