The ancient city of Ibadan is set to bid a final farewell to one of its most revered monarchs, the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who will be laid to rest today, Friday, following a series of solemn ceremonies and tributes in his honour.
The late traditional ruler, who passed away on July 7, 2025, will be honoured with a funeral service at St. Peter’s Church, Aremo, Ibadan, where top dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, are expected to be in attendance. The service will mark the formal commencement of his final rites as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In a statement issued by the Olubadan Palace Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, the funeral activities will also include the public presentation of a commemorative book titled “How Not to Be a King”, which offers a deep reflection on the life, values, and reign of the late monarch. The book presentation is scheduled to hold at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre during the funeral reception later in the day.
According to Ayoade, the book had originally been planned to celebrate Oba Olakulehin’s 90th birthday and coronation anniversary. However, the unfortunate demise of the monarch led to a postponement and reconfiguration of the event into a tribute to his memory. The publication chronicles key moments from the monarch’s life, reign, and leadership philosophy, while also featuring personal reflections and testimonies from family, friends, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
As part of preparations for the burial, traditional rites and other pre-funeral activities have been ongoing at various locations associated with the late king, including his residence in Alalubosa GRA, Aleshiloye, and the Central Palace in Oke Aremo.
The late Oba Olakulehin is remembered for his unwavering dedication to the peace, unity, and advancement of Ibadanland. His leadership, deeply rooted in tradition yet open to modern governance ideals, earned him respect both within and beyond Oyo State.
Today’s burial will not only mark the end of a chapter in the city’s storied traditional history but also celebrate the legacy of a monarch whose reign, though brief, was impactful and steeped in service to his people.
