Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadan land Oba Olakukehin, and other dignitaries are expected to attend the book launch for the late Oba Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan land, who passed away last March at the age of 81.
The book, titled The Life and Times of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Late Oba Lekan Balogun, is set to be launched on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Idiape, Ibadan. This event is expected to be the highlight of a symposium honoring the late monarch, who reigned from March 11, 2022, to March 14, 2024.
Governor Makinde will serve as the Special Guest of Honour, with the sitting Olubadan, Oba Olakukehin, as the Grand Host. The Ekerin Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Alhaji Chief Fatai Aremu Olanrewaju, and the Agba Akin Olubadan, High Chief Fijabi, will be the Chief Launchers at the event. According to the organizers, the book, written by educationist Dr. Layo Adeniyi, chronicles the Ibadan chieftaincy traditional system and delves deeply into the life and times of the late Oba Balogun.
The book consists of 221 pages and covers 21 chapters, focusing on past heroes in the city of Ibadan, the Ibadan Empire, its founders, notable Olubadan figures, ruling lines, and the emojis of Ibadanland. It also provides an in-depth explanation of the ascension to the Olubadan throne, the journey to becoming a high chief, and the roles of members of the Olubadan-in-Council. Furthermore, the organizers noted that the book details the unique process by which Ibadan chiefs ascend to the throne of Olubadan without any rancor. It also pays tribute to the eminent sons and daughters of the city and its fallen heroes.