Makinde: Our Reforms Will Safeguard Traditional System for Next 50 Years"

 

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away on Sunday, July 7, 2025. The governor’s visit was held at the late monarch’s residence in the Alalubosa area of Ibadan.

During the solemn visit, Governor Makinde offered heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, the Olubadan-in-Council, and the entire Ibadan traditional institution. He described the passing of Oba Olakulehin as the end of a distinguished era in Ibadanland, while commending the late monarch’s legacy of peace, unity, and dignity.

Reflecting on the administration’s efforts to protect and preserve the integrity of the traditional stool, the governor noted that Ibadanland narrowly avoided what could have escalated into a prolonged leadership vacuum. He appreciated the cooperation of the Olubadan-in-Council in ensuring a smooth succession process and noted that the reforms instituted under his watch were designed to safeguard the traditional system for the next fifty years.

Governor Makinde further announced the approval of state funds to support the burial rites of the late Olubadan. He assured the family and traditional council of his government’s full participation in the funeral arrangements, emphasizing the significance of giving the revered monarch a befitting farewell.

In his remarks, the Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Tajudeen Ajibola, expressed deep gratitude to the governor for his unwavering commitment to the traditional institution and for his infrastructural and developmental interventions across the Ibadan metropolis. He urged the Olakulehin family to collaborate closely with the Olubadan-in-Council and the Oyo State Government to ensure a seamless and dignified burial programme for the late king.

Speaking on behalf of the Olakulehin family, Mr. Sunbo Olakulehin, son of the late monarch, thanked Governor Makinde for the steadfast support extended to his father throughout his reign, especially during the transitional period leading up to his ascension to the throne. He described the governor as a true ally of the palace and appreciated the state's commitment to honouring the legacy of the late king.

The condolence visit was attended by key members of the Oyo State Executive Council, board chairpersons, and local government chairmen from across Ibadanland.