The Iyalode of Ibadanland in-Council under the leadership of the Iyalode of Ibadan, High Chief (Mrs) Theresa Oyekanmi on Thursday , 10th July 2025 paid a solemn condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, who passed on recently after a brief but dignified reign.
Led by the representative of the Iyalode, the delegation visited the late monarch’s family compound to express their heartfelt sympathies and support to the bereaved family. Speaking during the visit, the team described the late Olubadan as a father to all and a leader who embodied wisdom, patience, and a deep love for the culture and people of Ibadanland.
“We came, not to mourn , but to celebrate the life of Kabiyesi with the Olakulehin family, on the passing into glory of our illustrious patriarch. We remember him as a beacon of humility and service who has left an indelible mark in the history of Ibadanland. Kabiyesi lived an honourable life, and though his reign was brief, it carried the weight of peace and dignity,” the Iyalode said.
In continuation of their condolence visit, the Iyalode Chiefs also visited the Olubadan-in-Council at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, to express their shared grief and reaffirm their solidarity with the traditional leadership of Ibadanland. The chiefs were received by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, who appreciated the gesture and noted that the unity and reverence shown by the Iyalode Chiefs during this period of mourning reflects the enduring strength and harmony of Ibadan’s traditional institutions.
In the entourage were;Oloye Iyalode of Ibadanland (Iyalode in council); Oloye Yewande Durosaro – Osi Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onikepo Akande – Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland,; Oloye Kudirat Adeleke – Ekerin Iyalode of Ibadanland;Oloye Mojisola Ladipo – Ekefa Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Olanrewaju Otiti – Agbaakin Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Tawakalitu Sharafadeen Alli – Aregbe Omo Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Folake Akande – Bada Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Ayo Alaga – Ajia Iyalode of Ibadanland; Oloye Onibiyi Scott – Jagun Iyalode of Ibadanland
ỌMỌ AJ’OROSUN CLUB MOURNS THE PASSING OF OBA OWOLABI OLAKULEHIN, OLUBADAN OF IBADANLAND
With hearts heavy with grief and reverence, Ọmọ Aj’Orosun Club—the foremost socio-cultural association of indigenous sons of Ibadanland—joins the entire city of Ibadan, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large in mourning the passing of our revered monarch, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, who joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025.
Oba Olakulehin’s transition, occurring just two days after his 90th birthday and barely a year into his reign, marks a profound loss for Ibadanland. His time on the throne, though brief, was filled with quiet strength, regal dignity, and a deep commitment to preserving the cultural values, unity, and prosperity of our people. He was a father to all, a statesman, and a true custodian of the Ibadan tradition.
Ọmọ Aj’Orosun Club, made up solely of sons of the soil of Ibadanland, extends its heartfelt condolences to:
👉🏾The immediate family of the late Olubadan,
👉🏾Ibadan indigenes and residents both at home and in the diaspora,
👉🏾His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State,
👉🏾And the Olubadan-in-Council, ably led by Ọba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and a proud member of our noble club.
As tradition guides us through the rites of mourning and succession, we pray for wisdom, unity, and divine guidance in this period of transition. Ọba Olakulehin has left behind a legacy of honour, service, and ancestral pride. May his soul find peaceful rest among the pantheon of our illustrious forebears.
Ibadanland mourns. Ọmọ Aj’Orosun mourns.
E-Signed: Esv. Toyeshe Lawal Club P.R.O, Ọmọ Aj’Orosun Club
For: Engr. Sunday Gbenjo President, Ọmọ Aj’Orosun Club
On the Occasion of His 90th Birthday and First Anniversary on the Throne as Olubadan of Ibadanland
With hearts filled with gratitude to Almighty God, we join the good people of Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large in celebrating a rare milestone in the life of a most revered monarch—His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Today, we honour a nonagenarian royal icon, a statesman of great pedigree, and a traditional ruler whose ascension to the throne is both divinely orchestrated and historically significant. At 90 years of age and after one full year of peaceful and purposeful reign, Kabiyesi continues to stand as a symbol of grace, wisdom, resilience, and unity.
Your Majesty, your journey from humble beginnings through public service, military distinction, and leadership in various spheres, culminating in your ascension to the highest traditional stool in Ibadanland, is a compelling testimony of destiny fulfilled.
In your first year as Olubadan, you have demonstrated quiet strength, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of our people while fostering development and unity. The calm dignity with which you rule has brought renewed prestige to the Olubadan institution and has inspired confidence in traditional leadership. In the course of just one year on the throne, Kabiyesi has brought about a refreshing wave of peace, stability, and administrative progress in Ibadanland. His reign has been characterized by purpose-driven leadership and reform-minded governance. Noteworthy achievements include: The establishment of a systematic and transparent approach to chieftaincy matters; The creation of a dedicated committee to tackle land grabbing, a bold and timely response to a pressing challenge; And the streamlining of the installation processes for Mogajis and Baales, restoring dignity and order to these vital traditional roles. These deliberate initiatives have strengthened the fabric of traditional leadership and promoted the welfare of the people. They are emblematic of Kabiyesi’s visionary and steady hand on the reins of Ibadan’s cultural and civic affairs
As you celebrate 90 impactful years on earth and 365 days of royal service, we salute your remarkable life of honour and enduring service to humanity. You have become a living bridge between the glorious past of Ibadan and its promising future.
We pray that Almighty God continues to grant you divine health, strength, and peace of mind, so you may continue to reign in wisdom, justice, and prosperity over the great city of Ibadanland.
Death is a universal reality that unites all of humanity, regardless of culture, religion, or social status. It is the final chapter in every human life, yet its certainty often inspires people to reflect on how they live their lives. In the face of death’s inevitability, the meaning of life becomes a pressing question. One profound answer to that question lies in the human capacity to care for one another. Kindness, compassion, and support for others not only give meaning to our lives but also allow us to leave a lasting impact beyond our own existence.
Understanding death encourages humility. It is a reminder that our time is finite, and that every moment we spend angry, bitter, or self-centered is a moment lost. When we acknowledge that we are here for only a limited time, our priorities begin to shift. The pursuit of wealth, power, or status often fades in significance, and what emerges instead is the value of relationships, empathy, and love. We begin to realize that how we treat others is perhaps the most important legacy we leave behind.
Living for others does not mean sacrificing our individuality or suppressing our own needs. Rather, it is about recognizing our interconnectedness. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, sends ripples through the lives of others. A comforting word, a helping hand, or simply listening to someone in pain can transform a moment of despair into one of hope. These gestures create a world in which people feel valued, understood, and not alone.
In many ways, death brings clarity. It teaches us that the pain of loss is often soothed not by grand gestures but by simple acts of support. When someone passes away, it is the presence of friends and family, the shared memories, and the support of the community that help the grieving move forward. This is a reflection of our deepest human need—to be seen, to be heard, and to be loved. We cannot stop death, but we can ease the burden of life by being kind and supportive to those around us.
The idea of living for others is deeply rooted in many religious and philosophical traditions. In Christianity, for example, the commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself” is a central tenet. Buddhism emphasizes compassion and the alleviation of suffering. In African communal philosophies such as Ubuntu, the belief is that “I am because we are,” highlighting that our humanity is defined by our relationships with others.
From the Islamic perspective, both death and the need to live for others are central themes. The Qur’an states, “Every soul shall taste death” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:185), reminding believers that life is temporary and should be spent in preparation for the eternal hereafter. Islam teaches that the best preparation for death is not only prayer and worship but also living a life of service, kindness, and compassion.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Be in this world as though you were a stranger or a traveler” (Sahih Bukhari), a reminder of our brief stay on earth. He also said, “Allah is kind and loves kindness in all matters” (Sahih Muslim), and even described a smile as an act of charity. These teachings elevate everyday kindness into acts of spiritual significance.
A particularly powerful concept in Islam is Sadaqah Jariyah—ongoing charity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that when a person dies, their deeds end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them (Sahih Muslim). This highlights that living for others is the highest order of service to humanity.These traditions remind us that true fulfillment does not come from isolation or selfish gain but from our ability to uplift and care for one another.
Furthermore, in the face of death, kindness becomes a form of resistance—a way of asserting that love and goodness still matter. When someone chooses to be kind, especially in a world that can often be harsh and indifferent, it is a powerful statement. It is saying, “Despite everything, I choose to make things better for someone else.” This choice becomes even more meaningful when we understand that we may not have another chance. Every day offers an opportunity to be someone’s source of light in the darkness.
Many people who have faced the loss of a loved one often find purpose in helping others. This is not just a coping mechanism; it is a testament to the idea that love does not end with death. It transforms. Parents who lose a child may start a foundation in their name. Friends who lose someone to illness may raise awareness or funds for research. These acts of kindness carry the memory of the deceased forward, ensuring that their lives continue to make a difference.
Living for others also means being present. In our fast-paced, digitally connected world, it is easy to overlook the people right in front of us. Genuine support often comes not from grand plans but from paying attention, from noticing when someone is struggling and choosing to care. Being present is an act of kindness in itself. It says, “You matter. I see you.” These moments of connection are often what people remember most, especially when time runs out.Support can take many forms—emotional, physical, financial, or simply moral. Sometimes, supporting others means standing up for them, advocating for justice, or creating space for their voices to be heard. Other times, it means sitting silently beside someone who is grieving. The key is empathy—putting ourselves in others’ shoes and responding with humanity. Such support builds stronger families, resilient communities, and a more compassionate world.Moreover, living kindly and supportively for others enhances our own lives. Research shows that people who practice kindness and altruism experience greater happiness, lower stress, and improved mental health. Helping others gives a sense of purpose and fulfillment that material success alone cannot offer. In a paradoxical way, by focusing on others, we enrich ourselves. The more love we give, the more we feel it within us.In facing death, some may feel fear or sadness, but others find motivation to live more deeply and meaningfully. Knowing that life is short pushes us to make every interaction count. We may not have control over how or when we die, but we do have control over how we live and how we treat others. That power is both a responsibility and a gift.
When one understudy the life and death of Chief Elite Jamiu Diekola Onaolapo of the Egbinola Pharmacy, Oranyan Ibadan who returned to his creator on the best Day on earth, Day of Arafat, Thursday 5th June, 2025 it will remain a lesson for others to have a rethink of this ephemeral life and live for others.
In conclusion, death, far from being only an end, is also a teacher. It reminds us of the fragility and beauty of life. It challenges us to ask what kind of mark we want to leave behind. And in answering that question, we are guided to a life of kindness and support. Living for others—through compassion, presence, and care—is not only noble but necessary. It is the truest way to honor the lives we touch and the finite time we are given. Through our actions, we can ensure that even though we all must die, we live on in the love we have shown and the lives we have uplifted.
Baba Chief Elite Jamiu Diekola Onaolapo was the Chairman Board of Trustees, Oluyole Social Elites Club Ibadan and member of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes Board of Trustees.
May Allah accept his return and admit him unconditionally into the best level of Aljannah. Ameen
In 2013, I was deeply honoured by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) with the Distinguished Merit Award in recognition of my contributions to the progress and development of Ibadanland.
On Saturday 17th May 2025, I was again profoundly humbled as the same council conferred upon me the title of Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture (GAIC), in appreciation of my delivery of two excellent and unprecedented Ibadan Cultural Festivals in 2022 and 2024.
Throughout this journey of service to my fatherland, I have enjoyed unwavering support from my beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. Their sacrifices and understanding during my periods of absence made these achievements possible. I owe them my deepest gratitude.
At the Grand Finale of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival, held at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, I was overwhelmed by the presence and support of family, friends, and associates who came out in large numbers to celebrate this recognition with me.I would like to sincerely appreciate the immense support from:
The President of the Association of Ibadan Baales, Baale Bamitale Durojaye Folorunsho Ige; Baale Fatai Adesina Ojetola, Head of the Olayiwola-Ojetola Dynasty who represented the family Mogaji Rasheed Adeniyi Adeleke Abayaa; Alhaji Adegbite and his family; The Association of Professional Retired Nurses and Midwives of Nigeria (APRNMN); Members of the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association (IGSOSA); Alhaja Chief Mrs Rafata Adijolola Amunigun-Opowu, founder and former President, Oluyole Diamond Sister’s Club UK; Alhaja Chief Mrs Adijat Adeoye and her husband Alhaji Chief Adeoye; Omo’Ba Oluwatoosin Emmanuel Olakulehin; Honourable Wale Murphy; Alhaji Mayor Fatai AkinlabiChief Mrs Akerele;
Alhaji Olayiwola Taofeek, APC Party Chairman, Ibadan North LGA; All members of Team Akinremi; Aremo John Folorunsho Adeleke; Alhaji Lekan Hassan and Mrs Nike Hassan; Baale of Ojeniranland Chiefs; Alhaji and Alhaja GD Bello; Lady Linda Ajani and friends; Bashirat Aare and Kayode— to mention just a few.
My heartfelt appreciation also goes to Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and the newest Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Abiola Iyiola, for their generous financial support.
To the entire Olayiwola-Ojetola Dynasty, both at home and in the diaspora, thank you for your steadfast solidarity.
May the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) continue to grow in strength and unity, for the continued progress and prosperity of Ibadanland.
E se pupo. Mo dupe O. Olorun A ba mi dupe fun yin O. Aamin
With great pride and admiration, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your well-deserved recognition as the Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture (GAIC) by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
This honour, to be bestowed upon you on Saturday, 17th May 2025, at the Grand Finale of the 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival, is a resounding testament to your exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and unparalleled achievements as Chairman of both the 2022 and 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committees.
Your visionary stewardship during these pivotal years not only elevated the cultural prestige of Ibadan but also united our people in pride and purpose. Twice, you have led with excellence. Twice, you have delivered with honour. Now, history honours you in return.
May your new role as GAIC inspire even greater service to our heritage, and may the legacy you continue to build shine brightly for generations to come.Congratulations once again, Grand Ambassador! Ibadan is proud of you!
Committee of Friends and Members of the 2022 and 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committe.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has released the line-up activities for the 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
The 10-day event will showcase the richness of Ibadan’s heritage through a line-up of activities spanning sports, traditional games, music, religion, education, and youth empowerment.
According to the Central Planning Committee Chairman, headed by Alhaji Abiola Ali , the festival will begin on Thursday, May 8, with the finals of Ayo Olopon and Table Tennis at the Olubadan Palace from 11:00 am to 12 noon, followed by a homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
On Friday, May 9, the city will host a medical outreach and distribution of palliatives from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, while a Jummat Service will hold by 1:30 pm. The congregation will take off from Ibadan House by 1:00 pm.
Saturday, May 10 has been declared Amala Day, with celebrations taking place at Ibadan House from 10:00 am. Attendees will enjoy the city’s most famous dish alongside cultural exhibitions.
Sunday, May 11 will feature a Christian thanksgiving service at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, starting at 10:00 am. Departure from Ibadan House is scheduled for 9:00 am.
On Monday, May 12, the spotlight will be on the Education Program Final and Talent Hunt, taking place at Ibadan House from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Tuesday, May 13 is Youth Day, marked by a youth-focused event at Ibadan House from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. A stage play titled “Osuntoki” will follow at the Wole Soyinka Theatre Hall, University of Ibadan, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
The festival’s sports final will take place on Wednesday, May 14 at Ilaji Resorts and Suites football field in Akanran, starting at 10:00 am. Take-off time from Ibadan House is 9:00 am.
On Thursday, May 15, two major events are lined up: the Oreke/Brain Beauty Pageant at Aweni Hall, Oke Ado, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and a Business Dinner at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape, from 5:00 pm.
The penultimate day, Friday, May 16, will feature the prestigious Ibadan Conference at Ibadan House, beginning at 10:00 am.
The festival will culminate in a grand finale at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke Ado, on Saturday, May 17, starting at 10:00 am.
The 2025 Ibadan Cultural Festival promises to be a powerful celebration of tradition, community, and modern aspirations.
On this special day, we join the good people of Oyo State and well-wishers across the nation in celebrating a quintessential statesman, a detribalized patriot, and a pillar of support to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State — Barrister Chief AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal, MOFI , the Deputy Governor of Oyo State.
Your unwavering commitment to peace, excellence in governance, and unrelenting service to humanity have left indelible marks in the hearts of many.
Your recognition by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), under the Chairmanship of Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, as the Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland stands as a testament to your profound contributions to Ibadanland and the wider Oyo State.
As you mark another glorious year today, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola joins your numerous admirers in wishing you robust health, long life, abundant grace, and continued strength to serve the people with dignity and distinction.
May your days be filled with greater accomplishments, and may your legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has described the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, as a great loss, noting that he was a trailblazer whose legacy will never be forgotten.
The revered elder statesman, known for his intellectual brilliance and passionate advocacy for Ibadan development, passed away at the age of 89. His death has cast a shadow of mourning over the ancient city and beyond.CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, in a statement made available to newsmen by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Olomide, on Sunday, lamented the timing of Olunloyo’s passing, which closely followed the death of another prominent Ibadan son, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo.
Ajewole said the loss of two towering figures in quick succession had left Ibadan in deep grief.“What a loss! Baba’s elderly wife was at Bodija Central Mosque yesterday where we were celebrating the 90th Birthday of Alhaja Giwa and the Imam of the Mosque and Professor K. K. Olosho asked after the health of this frontline Ibadan leader,” he said.According to Ajewole, the passing of both Olunloyo and Adeojo within a space of three days was a painful blow to the city’s collective spirit.He, however, encouraged residents to take pride in the legacies left behind by the two distinguished leaders.“Coming just within three days of the demise of another quintessential Ibadan leader, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, made our grief more painful. But God knows the best,” he said.Olunloyo, who briefly governed Oyo State in 1983, was not only a political leader but also a respected mathematician, academic, and policy advocate. His influence went beyond politics into education and community development, where he remained a voice of wisdom and vision.CCII praised his enduring contributions, stating that his works and ideas would continue to guide generations.“Ibadan remains undeterred. Both of them have left footprints on the sands of time, unforgettable legacies that we are proud of. May God grant both eternal rest and grant the families and our beloved city the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Ajewole stressed.The council called on indigenes to see this moment as a call to action, to honour their memories through unity, progress, and cultural pride.“We must always be conscious of our heritage and braze up to continue our giant steps to make Ibadan greater. Adieu! our trailblazers,” the CCII President-General concluded.
The President, Ibadan Vanguard Sisters, Mrs Bade-Suarau Modasola Toyin and all members extend our heartfelt congratulations to you and your team on your re-election for a second term. As an affiliate club of our apex social cultural organization, we are honored to express our gratitude for your tireless efforts and dedication to our Ibadanland.Your leadership and vision have been instrumental in driving our organization’s growth and success.
We appreciate the time and energy you’ve invested in promoting our shared values and goals. Your commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for your various services , especially the miracle of putting a befitting palace in place and not just an ordinary palace but an edifice that have beaten all other existing palaces in Nigeria hands down. Another surprise is the completion of the Koladaisi empowerment center within a twinkle of an eye, the pursuance of cration of Ibadan state shall come to reality during this your second term.Oloye Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole , you and your team are noted for integrity and accountability.
These virtues are indeed highly commendable. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and supporting your initiatives in the coming term. Your team’s passion and expertise will undoubtedly propel our organization to new heights.Thank you for your selfless service and leadership. We are proud to be part of these success stories and excited to see the impact of your work.At this juncture, we pray that you embrace all inclusive administration and forget issues related to election.
