The nomination of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland was announced by Oba Lateef Adebimpe, the Osi Balogun, during a meeting at the Olubadan Palace in Oja’ba, Ibadan. The meeting, attended by key figures such as High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, discussed the succession following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan.
High Chief Ladoja, speaking to reporters after the closed-door session, confirmed that the appointment process had been concluded pending approval from the state governor. He mentioned that once the governor gives consent, preparations for the coronation will commence.
However, there have been dissenting voices, notably from Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, who expressed concerns about Oba Olakulehin’s fitness for the role at this time. Ajibola suggested allowing Oba Olakulehin time to regain his health before assuming the throne, advocating for the seat to remain vacant temporarily.