Oba Olakulehin Gets Military Honour as Makinde, COAS, Others Bid Farewell to Late Olubadan

 

By Kayode Olopade 

 In a powerful blend of tradition and ceremony, the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, was laid to rest with full military honours at the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, Aremo, Ibadan .

The funeral, held after a week of formal mourning activities, saw Governor Seyi Makinde, his deputy Bayo Lawal, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council preside over a solemn ceremony. The Chief of Army Staff’s seat was represented by the GOC of Nigeria Army’s 2nd Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, as the flag-draped coffin received a ceremonial salute and gun salute .

An emotionally-charged sermon was delivered by Archbishop Williams Aladekugbe, who described Oba Olakulehin as “a father, a guide, and a beacon of hope” whose reign—though brief—was underscored by unity, peace, and cultural preservation . Chief mourners, including leaders of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis, and other dignitaries gathered to pay final respects; many spoke of the monarch’s intellectual depth, military service, and enduring love for his people . To

In an unprecedented show of respect, several markets across Ibadan were ordered closed from early morning until midday on the day of the burial, symbolizing collective mourning and reverence for the late monarch .

Oba Olakulehin passed away on July 7, 2025, just two days after his 90th birthday and less than a year after being coronated on July 12, 2024 . The Olubadan stool now reverts to the Otun (civil) line, with former governor, Rasheed Ladoja poised to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, pending formal coronation rites