The throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland, left vacant after the passing of Oba Mahood Olalekan Balogun, has found its next occupant.
High Chief Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin has been unanimously appointed as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland by the kingmakers, who also constitute the Olubadan-in-Council.
The decision to appoint Olakulehin was reached during a meeting convened at Mapo Hall on Friday. Commencing at 11:00 am and concluding shortly after 12:00 pm, the gathering saw the ratification of Olakulehin’s nomination.
The nomination, proposed by Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Lateef Adebimpe, received unanimous approval from all members present, including the former governor of Oyo State and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasidi Ladoja.
Among the distinguished members of the Olubadan-in-Council in attendance were Osi Olubadan, Eddy Oyewole Foko; Ashipa Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekerin Olubadan, Hamidu Ajibade; Ekarun Olubadan, Adebayo Akande; Osi Balogun, Lateef Adebimpe; Ashipa Balogun, Kola Adegbola; Ekerin Balogun, Dada Isioye; and Ekarun Balogun, Abiodun Azeez. Notably absent was Otun Balogun, Tajudeen Ajibola.
Following the official ratification, the next step entails forwarding Olakulehin’s name to the state governor, Seyi Makinde, for formal endorsement.