Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, and the Olubadan-in-Council of his full involvement in the monarch’s forthcoming burial rites.
The governor gave the assurance on Monday during a condolence visit to the late monarch’s residence at Alalubosa G.R.A, Ibadan, where he was warmly received by members of the royal family and the Olubadan-in-Council.
Makinde, who described the late Olubadan as a father figure and a custodian of Ibadan tradition, said his government will actively support and participate in every aspect of the burial process as a mark of respect for the revered monarch.
Makinde also disclosed that approval has been made for release of funds to fast track smooth burial plans for the late Olubadan of Ibadan.
“This is not just the burial of a king, it is the farewell of a father to us all in Ibadanland. I want to assure the family, the council, and the people of Ibadan that I will be fully involved,not as the governor but as kabiesi’s son.
“The state government will also be fully involved in all arrangements regarding the burial of our late Kabiyesi,” Governor Makinde said.
He recalled how his efforts towards transforming the Oyo state chieftaincy law and traditional institution were initially misconstrued but was later accepted.
He also recounted how the support of the late monarch and the Olubadan-in-council enabled smooth sailing of the transformation of the traditional institution in the state.
He emphasized that the contributions of the late monarch to the peace and development of Ibadanland, and indeed Oyo State, would not be forgotten.
Responding on behalf of the family, Prince Olasunmbo Olakulehin, a senior member of the Olubadan royal lineage and former commissioner in the state, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Makinde for his unwavering support before and after the monarch’s passing.
“Governor Makinde stood with us firmly. He never turned his back on the family or the Olubadan-in-Council throughout Kabiyesi’s reign, and even now in mourning, he continues to demonstrate his love and loyalty to Ibadanland,” Prince Olakulehin noted.
He prayed for the attainment of greater political heights at the national level while assuring the governor of the family’s support for his government and his future political journey.
Also present at the gathering were senior chiefs, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, and traditional title holders who commended the governor for his respect for tradition and leadership sensitivity.
Westernmirror.com.ng had earlier reported that Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.
He died in the early hours of the day, just a year after ascending the throne on July 12, 2024, and barely two days after celebrating his 90th birthday on July 5, 2025.