Today marks a crucial day for Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan-designate, as the Olubadan-in-Council convenes to potentially confirm his position as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The meeting, slated to occur at the Olubadan Palace in Oja’ba, Ibadan, is expected to finalize the decision, with his name set to be forwarded to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for approval.

The Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Oyo State governor, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, announced the meeting’s rescheduling to today (Friday) due to public holidays. However, there are uncertainties regarding the attendance of some Ibadan crowned Obas at the meeting.

One source, speaking anonymously, revealed, “I may confirm to you that some of them will not honor the invitation, even though they were duly informed.”

There’s anticipation that Oba Olakulehin may attend the meeting. All eyes are on the kingmakers to ratify and pronounce him as the new Olubadan, adhering to the traditional chieftaincy arrangements.

Disagreements have arisen, with Otun Balogun, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, expressing concerns about Oba Olakulehin’s fitness for the role. However, Ladoja refuted these claims, emphasizing Oba Olakulehin’s suitability due to his age and experience.

If Oba Ajibola doesn’t attend, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, next in line, may nominate the new monarch. Following the meeting’s conclusion, the nomination will be presented to Governor Makinde for ratification.

Governor Makinde, addressing speculations, stated, “The Obas-in-Council are yet to make their nomination. When they make it, it will come to me and I will either say yes or no.”