Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday said he had accepted the recommendation of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin by the Olubadan-In-Council as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Makinde said this during the celebration of life organised by the state government for late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olalekan Balogun, who died on March 14 after a brief illness.
The governor said he had seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-In-Council and had accepted it.
“I have accepted it and as soon as the Olubadan designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is strong enough, he will be enthroned because due process has been followed,” Makinde said.
The governor said the late Olubadan lived a fulfilled life, adding that he and the late Olubadan did things many people thought would be impossible.
“Myself and late Oba Balogun amended the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration which revolved the enthronement of Olubadan,” he said.
Makinde said the state House of Assembly on May 26, 2023, amended the chieftaincy law of Oyo State and the governor no longer needs to go to the council of chiefs for the declaration of Oba again.
Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Yusuf Buratai (rtd), described Balogun as a philanthropist and lover of the people.
Buratai said that Balogun served Oyo State and Nigeria in general through various charitable efforts.
Also speaking, the Olowu of Owukuta, Oba Adekunle Hammed, said late Olubadan promoted unity within Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. (NAN)
