The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, passed away in the early hours of Monday at the age of 90, just days after celebrating his 90th birthday and the first anniversary of his coronation as the 43rd Olubadan.
The monarch, who ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, died after a brief reign marked by efforts to reconcile and strengthen the traditional institution of Ibadanland.
His passing has left the city in mourning, with tributes pouring in from leaders.
According to Ibadan’s traditional succession system, which alternates between civil and military lines, the next in line to the throne is expected to be Rashidi Ladoja, a former Oyo State Governor and the current Otun Olubadan from the civil line.
Sources indicate that Ladoja, who has long expressed his ambition to become Olubadan, is poised to ascend the throne as the new Olubadan of Ibadan unless the state government makes unforeseen changes.
The Ibadan Traditional Council is expected to announce funeral details and the coronation process in the coming days.
