* Oba Olakulehin
By Funso Alarape
Friday July 12, 2024
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The Olubadan-elect, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin will today formally ascend the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland at a ceremony to be held at the historical Mapo Hall, Ibadan having performed the necessary traditional rites.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is expected to present staff of office to the new Olubadan.
The ceremony is sequel to the governor’s approval of Olakulehin’s nomination by the Olubadan-in-council, in accordance with the powers conferred on the governor by section 19 (Cap 28) Law of Oyo State 2000 (as amended).
The Olubadan stool has been vacant since the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun died on March 14, 2024.
Oba Olakulehin is billed to make the customary tedious walk from Ose Meji shrine to Mapo hall after he has performed some traditional rites and is crowned by the Oluwo Afobaje of Ibadan land.
For Olakunlehin and the Okugbaja family at Ita Baale Olugbode, today’s coronation ends the 41-year-long wait for one of their own to reach the zenith of the Olubadan chieftaincy ladder.
Olakulehin’s ascent to the throne dates back to 1983 when he emerged as Mogaji (family head), which is the first step for a prospective Olubadan.
There are two ruling lines to the throne of Olubadan: the Egbe Agba (civil) and Balogun (military).
Olakulehin is of the Balogun ruling line.
From Mogaji, every Olubadan has to climb either a 22-rung or 23-rung ladder depending on their line of ascendancy.
When on June 14, Oba Olakulehin went to inspect the ultra-modern Olubadan palace, he said he always knew he would ascend the revered Olubadan stool.
“When we started the ladder (Mogaji), I asked, Do we get to the climax? And they said, yes. So, I knew that I would become Olubadan of Ibadanland. Now that we are there, we still need to pray to God because he has done good things for us in Ibadan. So, we must continue to praise him,” Olakulehin said.
Today’s event is expected to be attended by foremost traditional rulers, top public office holders, the crème-de-la-crème in the society and personalities from all walks of life.
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