In a statement issued on Monday by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Comrade Moses Olafare, the Ooni expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s death, which occurred in the early hours of Monday

By Titilope Adako

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Yorubaland and the end of an era defined by honour, tradition, and royal stability.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Comrade Moses Olafare, the Ooni expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s death, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025 just two days after he marked his 90th birthday.

Oba Ogunwusi said the news of Oba Olakulehin’s demise had sent shockwaves through the entire Oduduwa race, adding that although his reign was brief, it was filled with rare wisdom, fatherly leadership, and a firm commitment to the peace and unity of Ibadanland.

“Oba Olakulehin was not just a king; he was a symbol of grace and a custodian of values. His journey to the throne was marked by discipline and lifelong dedication to his people. As Balogun Olubadan and later as the 43rd Olubadan, he served with dignity and unwavering devotion,” the Ooni said.

Recalling the royal bond between the ancient stools of Ife and Ibadan, Oba Ogunwusi praised the late Olubadan as a man of cultural depth and honour whose voice was highly respected during regional engagements among Yoruba traditional rulers.

He described the monarch as a strong pillar in the preservation of Yoruba heritage and a vital advocate of peace and unity among royal fathers.

“He remained a beacon of tradition till his last breath,” the Ooni added.

Oba Ogunwusi extended his condolences to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan-in-Council, the royal family, and the people of Ibadanland, urging them to find comfort in the noble legacy left behind by the departed king.

“As the Natural Father of the Oduduwa race, I share in the grief of Ibadan. The throne of Oduduwa stands in solidarity with the people of Oyo State at this moment of mourning and reflection. Oba Olakulehin lived a life of honour, peace, and unwavering loyalty to our heritage,” he said.

The Ooni prayed for strength and comfort for the family and subjects of the late monarch, describing him as a royal icon whose life was marked by patience, service, and deep cultural responsibility.

“May the soul of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin find peaceful rest among the noble ancestors of our land. His memory will live on, and his legacy will continue to inspire. Yorubaland will dearly miss him. Orun re o, Kabiyesi,” the Ooni concluded.