The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90.
A family source confirmed the monarch’s passing to Channels Television on Monday, noting that the revered traditional ruler died in the early hours of the day, just days after celebrating both his 90th birthday and the first anniversary of his coronation.
Oba Olakulehin was installed as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on June 14, 2024, following the death of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun.
His reign, though brief, was marked by reflections on legacy, tradition, and leadership.
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran in Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Olakulehin had just celebrated his milestone 90th birthday on Saturday, July 5, surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers.
In a statement released last Friday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the monarch on the twin celebrations of his birthday and coronation anniversary.
Describing Oba Olakulehin as a symbol of wisdom and cultural stewardship, the President praised his lifelong commitment to national development and Yoruba heritage.
Oba Olakulehin’s life journey was shaped by humble beginnings and broad experiences.
He began his education at St. James Primary School, Oke Akaran, and later studied at St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo, with brief enrollment at an Islamic school in Odoiye.
After a short stint as a teacher in Ibadan, he pursued vocational training in printing and graphic arts at Yaba Technical Institute.
In 1970, he joined the Nigerian Army via the Direct Short Service Commission, serving in the Army Corps of Engineers.
Rising to the rank of Major, he held significant roles, including commanding maintenance regiments in Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos, before retiring in 1979.
Following his military career, Oba Olakulehin became a businessman and entrepreneur.
He founded FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction company, alongside FAKOL Bakery and Olakunlehin Press, later renamed Solid Prints.
He also made his mark in politics. In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Constituency. While in office, he chaired the House Committee on the Nigerian Army, bringing his military background to bear on national defense policy.
