Ahead of the official coronation, the Alalubosa residence of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, has been a beehive of activities with individuals and groups paying homage to the recently nominated 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Amongst the individuals who have visited him were Chief Bode Amao and Chief Bayo Oyero, former presidents of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Alhaji Laditi Ladapo, former secretary to the Oyo State government, former acting vice-chancellor of the Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Professor Adekunle Adeniran and Venerable Olatunde Alamu.
Several groups have also visited the incoming monarch including members of the Ibadan kingmakers led by Oba Adebimpe, Iyalode line of the Ibadan Traditional Council led by Chief Amudalat Adekunle, Otun Iyalode.
Leading top Anglican clerics to the Oba was Rt. Rev. Joseph Olatunji Akinfenwa and Mogajis of Ibadan families with Aare Egbe Mogaji, Asimiyu Ariori as head.
The royal highnesses made up of Obas under the royal majesties in the Ibadan Obaship structure were at the monarch’s palace to pay their respect.
Leading the 14 monarchs was the Oniroko Of Iroko, Oba Olasunkanmi Opeola, who expressed delight and satisfaction at the condition in which they met Oba Olakulehin and prayed for his long and successful tenure as the Olubadan.
“The royal highnesses are here today to pay obeisance to Kaabiyesi as he prepares to ascend the throne of his forefathers. Oba Olakulehin has been good to us and was very instrumental to our installation as Royal Highnesses.
“It will therefore be unforgivable if we don’t come to pay homage and respect to our benefactor. Our prayer is for God’s guidance, protection, peaceful and long reign as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland”
On Tuesday, the Association of Traditional Baales also took their turn to pay homage to the Oba.
