Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially presented the staff of office to Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, marking his ascension as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. The elaborate ceremony took place at Mapo Hall Grounds, with dignitaries from across the country in attendance.

“I, Engr Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by Sections 1 and 2, Subsections 20 of the Oyo State Chiefs Law, Cap 28, Volume 1 Laws of Oyo State, Nigeria, hereby present the staff of office, ratifying the appointment of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Governor Makinde announced.

The governor highlighted that Oba Olakulehin’s ascension symbolizes the resilient spirit of Ibadanland. “This has again demonstrated that Ibadanland and the people of Ibadan can be resilient. Those who have been focusing on the things that divide us have now been put to shame. I want to greet the Kabiyesi and pray that God will grant you long life to reign for a long time on the throne,” Makinde said.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, extended his congratulations to the new monarch, emphasizing the significance of the Ibadan monarchical system. “What we are celebrating today is not just the ascension of Oba Olakulehin but the enduring tradition and resilience of the Ibadan monarchy,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu praised Governor Makinde for adhering to traditional protocols in the appointment and installation of the new Olubadan. “The nation remains grateful for this abiding legacy of the Olubadan dynasty, which has been a beacon of stability with its unique succession route to the throne, a tradition established since 1851,” he added.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who also serves as the Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, congratulated both the new Olubadan and Governor Makinde, describing the occasion as the beginning of a new era.

Olanike Adeyemo, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), acknowledged the event as a celebration of Ibadan’s rich cultural legacy. “Beyond the coronation ceremony, this event honours the rich Ibadan cultural legacy that has thrived for centuries,” she said.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, expressed his gratitude to Governor Makinde for his leadership and dedication to preserving Ibadan’s cultural heritage. “Governor Makinde’s vision and support have been instrumental in making this historic coronation ceremony a reality,” Ojo said.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Olakulehin thanked Governor Makinde for his unwavering support of the traditional institution. He also expressed appreciation to everyone who attended the coronation ceremony.

The ceremony saw a gathering of prominent figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II); former Military Administrator of old Oyo and Ogun states, General Oladayo Popoola (rtd); and former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja.

Also in attendance were Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke, represented by his Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by Deputy Governor Olaide Adelami; and Governor of Lagos State Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Chief of Staff Tayo Ayinde, among other dignitaries.