Ibadan, the ancient capital of Oyo State, stood still on Friday as dignitaries, traditional leaders, clerics, and residents gathered to bid a final farewell to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, who passed away on July 7, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.
The revered monarch was laid to rest after a funeral service at the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter’s, Aremo, where the atmosphere was filled with solemnity and reverence.
Delivering the sermon, Most Reverend Williams Aladekugbe, Archbishop of the Ibadan Province (Anglican Communion), paid glowing tribute to the late king, describing him as more than a traditional ruler.
“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was more than a king; he was a father, a guide, and a beacon of hope for many,” Aladekugbe said.
He praised the monarch’s compassionate leadership, wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and cultural heritage, noting that his reign was marked by efforts to foster dialogue and harmony among Ibadan’s diverse communities.
“His dedication to the welfare of his people and his commitment to justice will forever be remembered,” the Archbishop added. “As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the rich legacy he has left us, one that encourages us to strive for a better future.”
In a symbolic gesture of mourning, all markets in Ibadanland were shut down on Friday morning from 5 a.m. to 12 noon, as directed by the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abass.
Abass said the late monarch would be remembered by traders and artisans for maintaining peace and providing an enabling environment for commerce in the city.
“Traders and artisans in Ibadan will continue to remember the late monarch for maintaining peace and creating an enabling environment for marketers in the ancient city,” he said.
He also urged all market leaders to ensure strict compliance with the directive and prayed for comfort for the royal family.
The final rites began on Thursday with a lying-in-state at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan South East Local Government Area. The event drew members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis (family heads), traditional worshippers, religious leaders from both Christian and Muslim communities, and government officials.
Among them was Femi Ibikunle, Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Interfaith Affairs, who described the late Olubadan as an articulate leader with a deep love for the people.
“The late Oba Olakulehin always had the people’s interest at heart. He was hardworking and accommodating, and his tolerance of all religious groups helped ensure peace during his reign,” Ibikunle said.
President of the Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, praised the monarch for a life of meritorious service and an indelible impact on Ibadanland.
On behalf of the royal family, the late monarch’s first son, Sunmbo Owolabi, thanked the people of Ibadan for their support.
“We pray that our city will continue to wax stronger,” he said, echoing the family’s hope that the legacy of Oba Olakulehin will endure.
Later on Thursday evening, a Christian wake was held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area, bringing together family members, religious leaders, and well-wishers for prayers and reflection as part of the king’s rites of passage.
As Ibadan lays its beloved monarch to rest, the city remembers Oba Owolabi Olakulehin not only for his royal lineage but for a reign defined by service, dignity, and unity
