Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has confirmed Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the next Olubadan of Ibadan land.
The affirmation was made during the farewell ceremony held for the late Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Olalekan Balogun, at the Obafemi Awolowo Liberty Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, the state capital.
During his speech, Governor Makinde acknowledged the nomination of Olakulehin by the Olubadan in council as the next Olubadan, a nomination which he has accepted.
He stated his commitment to perform the enthronement ceremony as soon as Olakulehin is confirmed medically fit for the coronation.
Governor Makinde praised the late Olubadan as a vibrant and participatory leader.
He highlighted the amendment of the chieftaincy law in May, which now empowers the state governor to officiate the enthronement of monarchs without needing to meet with the council of chiefs for amendment of declaration of the traditional rulers.
“I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan in council and I have accepted it,” Makinde said. “We will, as soon as Oba Olakulehin is medically fit, enthroned because due process has been followed.”
The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, earlier described the late Olubadan as a dedicated and highly intelligent personality.
Former Oyo South senator, Kola Balogun, also credited the Seyi Makinde-led administration for honoring his family and his late elder brother.
