Ibadan Kingmakers Nominate High Chief Owolabi Olakulehin as New Olubadan, Pending Governor’s Approval

The Ibadan Kingmakers have nominated High Chief Owolabi Olakulehin, the Balogun of Ibadanland, as the new Olubadan of Ibadan. The nomination follows the recent passing of Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland. This decision is subject to the approval of Governor Seyi Makinde.

The meeting, held on Friday at Mapo Hall and chaired by Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasidi Ladoja, saw the kingmakers agree on Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan. Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, led the session.

However, the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, was notably absent from the gathering. Ajibola recently sparked controversy by claiming Olakulehin was unwell and unfit to rule, a position refuted by Ladoja. Ladoja emphasized that Ajibola’s assessment of Olakulehin’s health was merely his personal opinion and lacked medical basis.

The Ibadan community now awaits Governor Makinde’s decision on the kingmakers’ nomination.