Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde on Friday presented staff and instruments of office to the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1.
The governor made the presentation around 2:45 pm on Friday, at a ceremony at the frontage of Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Makinde, while making the presentation, said, “They said they want to sabotage, they want to sabotage, we are here today at Mapo Hall.
“I, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State by the virtue of power conferred on me, hereby present the staff of office to the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“Let us say Kabiesi!”
The scene at Mapo Hall, the venue for the coronation of Oba Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, was vibrant and bustling.
The palatial stage, rhythmic drum beats, colourful outfits, and shots from dane guns set the festive mood.
Anxious onlookers, drink vendors, elaborate decorations, busy roads, bystanders, massive projector screens, and a heavy security presence added to the atmosphere.
Canopies and tents of various types, shapes, and sizes were also in place.
The highly anticipated event culminated in a series of activities, starting with the official opening of the ultramodern Olubadan Palace at Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
Although, the weather initially appeared cloudy, it began to clear up, with signs of the sun emerging.
Despite the initial weather concerns, dignitaries started arriving at the venue for this historic event.
The list of prominent individuals include the Ogun State governor, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, Ondo State governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa who was represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami and the Oyo State deputy governor, Bayo Lawal.
Traditional rulers at the event include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola.
The roll call also included traditional rulers from within and outside the state, community leaders, prominent indigenes of the state, and top government functionaries among people who are already at the event.
