The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at the age of 90. The revered monarch died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, exactly one year after he was officially crowned as the 43rd Olubadan.

Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin’s death came just two days after he marked his 90th birthday. He ascended the throne on July 12, 2024, when he was formally presented with the staff of office by the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

Oba Olakulehin hailed from Okugbaja village, Ita Baale, near Akanran in the Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State. He was born to Pa Ishola-Okin Owolabi and Madam Adunola Aweni Ope Ajilaran Omoyoade Owolabi.

His early education began at St. James Primary School, Oke Akaran, and continued at the Islamic School in Odoiye, before he completed his studies at St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan. After school, he briefly worked as a teacher in Wakajaiye, Akobo area of Ibadan before gaining admission to Yaba Technical Institute, where he studied printing and artwork.

In 1970, Olakulehin joined the Nigerian Army through a Direct Short Service Commission and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers. During his military career, he served in various locations and rose to the rank of Major. He held several command positions, including as the Commanding Officer of the Army Maintenance Regiment in Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos. He retired from the military on October 1, 1979.

After retiring from the army, Oba Olakulehin ventured into business and entrepreneurship. He founded FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction company, and also established Olakunlehin Press, later renamed Solid Prints, as well as FAKOL Bakery, all based in Ibadan.

He also had a stint in politics. In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Federal Constituency. During his time in the National Assembly, he served as the Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army.

Oba Olakulehin’s passing marks the end of a life defined by service to his community, state, and country, in military, business, politics, and traditional leadership. His legacy as a disciplined soldier, visionary businessman, and respected monarch will be remembered across Ibadanland and beyond.