The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has mourned the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died in the early hours of Monday at the age of 90.
In a statement released through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan, Alaafin described the late monarch as a visionary leader whose short time on the throne brought notable impact to the people of Ibadanland.
Oba Olakulehin had spent less than a year as Olubadan before his passing.
“A good heart has stopped beating, and a good soul has ascended to heaven,” the Alaafin said. “We part with our beloved monarch in pain. May our Lord bless and comfort the entire royal family during this time of grief.”
He reminded the public that death is a journey every human must face. “Every soul shall taste death. This is the law that governs life. It has no exceptions or exemptions,” Alaafin noted.
He added that Oba Olakulehin’s life was full of dedication and compassion, and even at 90, he could not stop the call of death.
“Whatever happens to us during this trip through life, whether good or bad, is meant as a test,” the monarch stated. “As dedicated, committed, resilient, large-hearted and amiable as the late monarch was, when death came knocking, he was powerless.”
Alaafin extended deep sympathy on behalf of the people of Oyo town to the late king’s family and all residents of Ibadan.
“We pray for strength for the family. A good soul has passed on, and a good ruler has gone up to heaven,” he said. “May the soul of the departed royal father be at peace with our Heavenly Father.”
