9 Facts About Late Olubadan Who Died Two Days After His 90th Birthday

The city of Ibadan has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. 

The revered monarch passed away just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday, bringing an end to a remarkable life defined by service, culture, leadership, and peace.

Though his reign was brief, Oba Olakulehin’s influence stretched far beyond the palace walls. From politics and the military to grassroots leadership and cultural preservation, he remained a towering figure whose memory will be cherished by many. 

Here are some key facts about the late Olubadan Oba Owolabi Olakulehin

He Was the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland
Oba Olakulehin held the distinguished title of the 43rd Olubadan, the highest traditional office in Ibadan. His position wasn’t just symbolic. it carried deep cultural weight. The Olubadan throne represents the heartbeat of Ibadan’s traditional structure and is one of the most respected crowns in Yoruba land.

He passed away at age 90
Born in 1934, Olakulehin lived through Nigeria’s major historical shifts from colonial rule to independence and beyond. His long life gave him the experience and perspective that helped him lead with calm wisdom. His passing at 90, just two days after marking the milestone, felt like the closing of a significant chapter in Ibadan’s history.

His reign was short but deeply symbolic
Though health issues delayed his formal installation as Olubadan, Olakulehin was widely accepted as the rightful monarch. His short time in that role still served as a unifying symbol for the people of Ibadan, especially in a period where the city needed stability and tradition to anchor it.

He rose tthrough the civil line of Ibadan’s traditional system
Ibadan’s unique kingship system rotates between the civil and military lines, allowing high chiefs to ascend based on seniority and service. Olakulehin rose through the civil line, patiently taking on roles like Ekerin and Balogun before eventually emerging as Olubadan. 

He was a lawmaker during Nigeria’s second republic
Before donning the crown, Oba Olakulehin served as a politician. He represented his constituency in the House of Representatives from 1979 to 1983. Known for his soft-spoken nature and thoughtful approach to governance, he advocated for education, development, and Yoruba unity. His experience in the legislature gave him a wider understanding of national politics.

He Was a Retired Army Major
Olakulehin also had a long and decorated military career. Starting his civil service in the Ministry of Works, he later joined the Nigerian Army in 1970 through the Direct Short Service Commission. He served under General Olusegun Obasanjo and rose to the rank of Major. His army years took him to Benin, Sapele, Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos, where he held commanding roles before retiring in 1979. That same year, he ventured into politics.

He promoted peace and unity across Ibadan
Throughout his life, Olakulehin was known as a bridge-builder. Whether it was political tensions or community clashes, he often stepped in to encourage dialogue. His calm presence and wise interventions earned him widespread respect across different groups in Ibadan. To many, he was more than a king, he was a symbol of peace.

He championed yoruba culture
As a traditional ruler, Olakulehin saw cultural preservation as a personal mission. He actively supported Yoruba festivals, language, poetry, and storytelling. His palace welcomed drummers, griots, and cultural enthusiasts who saw in him a patron of heritage. He believed that tradition was not just for show but a foundation for identity.

He was also a businessman
After leaving the army, Oba Olakulehin explored the business world. He founded FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction company, and also ran Solid Prints (formerly Olakulehin Press) and FAKOL Bakery, all based in Ibadan. These ventures reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community development through job creation and local enterprise.