…Pays Condolence Visit to Late Olubadan’s Family
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured that the Ibadan chieftaincy system will continue to stand firm and united, owing to the bold reforms initiated by his administration since assuming office in 2019.
Governor Makinde gave this assurance on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I. The governor emphasized that the once-contentious issues within the traditional institution have been successfully resolved, resulting in a more cohesive and respected system.
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Reflecting on the earlier challenges that plagued the institution, Governor Makinde noted that rather than avoiding the crisis, his administration embraced the opportunity to restructure the institution for long-term stability and unity.
“I am here to officially condole with the family. Many may not know how close I was to the late Kabiyesi,” Makinde said. “When I assumed office in 2019, I met a chieftaincy system in disarray. I engaged all stakeholders and assured them the issues were temporary.
“I remember meeting Kabiyesi in church shortly after and he said, ‘Governor, you stopped us from wearing our crowns,’ and I told him, ‘It’s for a greater good.’ I promised we would confront the challenges and make the institution stronger than we met it.”
Governor Makinde expressed gratitude that the reforms led to Oba Olakulehin reclaiming his crown and ultimately ascending to the revered throne of Olubadan before his transition.
“Today, the Ibadan traditional system is no longer under any form of strain. We restored unity, and I am proud to say the foundation we have laid will keep the institution solid for at least the next 50 years,” he added. “There’s now no rancour or division, and this was achieved during Baba’s reign.”
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to being fully involved in the burial arrangements, noting his ties to Aremo, where the late monarch hailed from.
In their responses, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadanland, speaking on behalf of the Olubadan-in-Council, and Prince Sumbo Owolabi, the late monarch’s eldest son, both commended Governor Makinde for his unwavering support.
Oba Ajibola said:
“We are proud of the way Your Excellency has managed the traditional institution. Your tenure has brought remarkable calm and reform to Ibadanland. The late Olubadan would be proud of your efforts.”
Prince Sumbo Owolabi also appreciated the governor’s presence and goodwill:
“Thank you, sir, for not abandoning us after Baba’s passing. We see your work and we pray that you finish well. You have been outstanding.”
Governor Makinde was accompanied by prominent government officials, including former Deputy Governor Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi, Senior Executive Assistant on General Duties Chief Bayo Lawal, commissioners, House of Assembly members, local government chairpersons from Ibadanland, and other top aides.
Signed:
Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Special Adviser (Media) to the Oyo State Governor
July 22, 2025
