Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has assured that the state government would stand by the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin at this period of mourning and also give the late monarch a befitting burial.
The governor stated this on Monday in his office in Ibadan when he received the delegation from the late family monarch’s family to formally announce the passing of Oba Olakulehin.
Those in the delegation included the former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, Chief Bayo Oyero; younger brother of the deceased Olubadan, Mr Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin, and son of the deceased, Aremo Olasumbo Owolabi.
“We don’t always want them to go; we want them to stay with us. But God has designed our bodies for a certain period of time.
“I commiserate with the family and all of us. The government will definitely stay with the family and play whatever roles we are supposed to play, including giving Kabiyesi a befitting burial.
“I will ask all the members of the family to take heart. Coincidentally, today marks the 13th year since my father passed on. So, for the immediate family, I pray for strength,” Governor Makinde said.
Earlier, Chief Oyero said, “We are here this morning with gratitude to God and to formally inform you of the passing away of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Frederick Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, who passed away early this morning.
“We thank you very sincerely. In spite of the controversial situation we had before he ascended the throne, you still approved his ascension to the imperial throne of Ibadanland.
“We want to thank your government for all you have done, including a remarkable, historic coronation ceremony, which the government did for him.”
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto and chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria (NTRCN), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Oba Olakulehin.
In a heartfelt message of condolence, the Sultan extended prayers and sympathies on behalf of himself and the Sultanate Council to the Oyo State government, the bereaved family, and the entire members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
He acknowledged the significant contributions the late monarch made towards the development of Ibadan land and humanity at large.
“The passing of this great monarch leaves a void that will be felt across the land. He was a remarkable leader—a good-hearted giant in thought and action. Even though he was with us for just a year beyond his ascension to the throne, his legacy and dedication to his people will forever resound in the hearts and minds of everyone.
“May God grant the family and the good people of Ibadan Land the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Ameen,” the Sultan prayed.
Similarly, the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi also extended condolences to the people of Ibadanland over the passing of Oba Olakulehin.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, but found solace in the indelible marks he left behind as a monarch. His transition to the great beyond is a significant loss to our traditional institution.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, family, the entire people of Ibadan, friends and loved ones of the deceased monarch. May the Almighty grant us the strength to bear the irreparable loss,” he said.
The monarch added that Oba Olakulehin will forever be remembered for his contributions towards the progress and development of traditional institution and Oyo State.
