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.
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Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finally deciding to visit Benue State following the massacre of over 150 people by suspected assailants over the weekend.In a strongly worded statement posted on social media, Obi described the move as “refreshing news” for a nation deeply wounded by repeated tragedies, but urged the President not to stop at Benue. He called on Tinubu to also visit Niger State specifically Mokwa where over 200 lives were reportedly lost and more than 1,000 persons remain missing due to a recent flooding disaster.
“Given the emergency nature of these incidents, a prompt visit would have delivered the urgency needed, instead of giving future dates that makes it look like a state visit,” Obi stated.
He drew comparisons with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who recently embarked on a nearly 1,900 km round trip to Mthatha to visit flood victims despite the incident claiming fewer than 100 lives. According to Obi, the distance from Abuja to both Makurdi (Benue) and Mokwa (Niger) combined is far shorter and should not be an obstacle for the Nigerian President.
“These are not just statistics; they are the lives of Nigerian families torn apart and their communities destroyed,” he said. “If the South African President could do it, we trust that you, as our own President, can do the same for your people.”Obi emphasized that a visit to flood-ravaged Niger State would send a strong and needed message: that all Nigerian lives matter, and no community no matter how remote is forgotten.He also called on the President to step up security and disaster response efforts across the country, warning that true leadership must go beyond “remote control” and involve visible, compassionate action.
“We look forward to seeing not leadership by remote control but proactive leadership that responds not just with words, but with compassion and action,” Obi concluded.
Pandemonium was let loose on Wednesday as armed robbers attacked some shops in Mokola area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital city.
Shooting sporadically into the air to scare away innocent people, the robbers operation was said to have lasted barely five minutes.It was gathered that no fewer than three people sustained gunshot wounds during the robbery operation which took place near the Mokola bridge, Ibadan.
A source said the incident happened at about 11:30AM with the robbers carting away undisclosed valuables including cash.
Eye witness said the victims were attacked as they were about entering into a store to buy provisions meant for retail, noting that the robbers could have traced the victims to the store as they succeeded in carting away an unconfirmed amount of money at gun point.Another source added that the armed robbers shot sporadically for minutes and two people sustained gunshot injuries while another person lost consciousness before the arrival of the police.It was gathered that, while a middle-aged man sustained gunshot injury near his groins, another was hit in the leg and a teenager with a bullet wound on her wrist.
As at the time of filing this repor, the victims were said to be receiving medical attention at Alaafia Hospital, Mokola as security surveillance around the vicinity has increased.When contacted, the Spokesman of Oyo Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, a Chief Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident, saying no fatality was recorded.He added that, although there were gunshots, two people sustained injuries.
He debunked insinuations that the attack happened in a bank, but under the Mokola bridge, cautioning residents from spreading panic and fear through their reports.He said further investigation has commenced into the incident, assuring that the Police will get to the root of it.He called on the people to remain calm and go about their activities lawfully.
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
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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
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.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) stands as a unifying force for the sons and daughters of Ibadanland, ensuring that our heritage, unity, and progress remain unwavering. At this critical juncture, Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Awotunde presents herself as a competent, passionate, and people-driven candidate for the position of Social Secretary, pledging to redefine community engagement and promote the collective welfare of Ibadan indigenes.
A Proven Leader with a Track Record of Service:
Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Awotunde is a respected community leader, health professional, and philanthropist with an impressive background in public service and social mobilization. Her leadership experience spans across various domains, demonstrating a rare blend of competence, empathy, and innovation in community development.
Chief Mrs Temitope Awotunde
Her previous roles include: ✅ LACA Manager in the Local Government– spearheading public health initiatives at the grassroots level. ✅ Head of the Community Health Department– ensuring access to essential healthcare services. ✅ Chairman, Disciplinary Committee & Ceremonial Committee, Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology – fostering order, discipline, and excellence. ✅ Chairperson, Childhood Cancer Awareness Committee, Lions Club International (Ibadan Axis) – advocating for children’s health under the Lions Club. ✅ Philanthropist – committed to humanitarian services and grassroots empowerment.
A Social Secretary on a Mission:
If elected, Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Awotunde envisions an Ibadan where every indigene—both at home and in the diaspora—feels a sense of belonging, enjoys social welfare programs, and participates actively in the cultural and developmental affairs of Ibadanland.
Her leadership philosophy is anchored on:
✔ Integrity and Accountability – A transparent, people-centered approach to service. ✔ Approachability and Friendliness – Ensuring that every indigene has a voice. ✔ Hard Work and Dedication – Commitment to fostering growth and inclusion. ✔ Prudence and Equity – Fairness in decision-making for the collective benefit of all. ✔ Creativity and Innovation – Implementing fresh ideas to drive social cohesion.
Chief Mrs Awotunde the Asiwaju Iyalode of Awotan land, Otun Iyalode of Idi-oro Elewa, Adetokun, Ologuneru, Otun Asiwaju oloja of Ibadanland and Iyalode Asa has pledged the following if she emerged as the Social Secretary.
Health & Well-being:
Monthly free medical check-ups covering blood pressure monitoring, sugar level tests, vision screening, and general health awareness campaigns.
Organizing fitness and wellness programs for a healthier Ibadan community.
Community Welfare & Economic Empowerment:
Revamping the CCII Food Canteen/Tuck Shop to provide affordable meals.
Partnering with Distributorship of Satchet/Bottle Water to ensure a steady supply of clean drinking water while supporting local enterprises.
Investment in Affordable Food Items – making staple foods more accessible at reduced prices.
Cultural Preservation & Social Engagement:
Supporting cultural festivals and social events to promote Ibadan’s rich heritage.
Facilitating sporting activities to foster unity and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Youth & Women Empowerment:
Support and promote skill acquisition and mentorship programs for young people and women inline with the general objectives of CCII
Partnering with organizations to support entrepreneurship and education.
Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Awotunde has consistently proven her commitment to service, leadership excellence, and community development. As Social Secretary, she will work tirelessly to ensure that Ibadan indigenes benefit from progressive, inclusive, and sustainable social programs.
Her track record speaks for itself—now is the time to entrust her with the responsibility of strengthening our unity and preserving the Ibadan legacy.
VOTE FOR CHIEF (MRS.) TEMITOPE AWOTUNDE! Let’s build a stronger Ibadan together!
In a well-deserved recognition of exceptional contributions to tourism and hospitality, Chief (Engr.) Dotun Sanusi has been honored as “Man of the Year 2024” in the sector.
This award celebrates not just his unparalleled investment in hospitality and tourism but also his dedication to economic development, youth empowerment, and social impact in Oyo State and beyond. For years, Dotun Sanusi has stood as a pillar of innovation, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, consistently championing the growth of local businesses, infrastructural development, and tourism expansion.
His flagship hospitality investment, Ilaji Hotels and Resorts, has transformed Akanran in Ona Ara Local Government into a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from within and outside Nigeria. What was once an underdeveloped area is now a beacon of economic growth, employment, and cultural renaissance, thanks to Sanusi’s visionary leadership.
Beyond tourism, his impact on Oyo State’s socio-economic landscape is unmatched. A man of deep-rooted patriotism and selfless service, Dotun Sanusi has continuously invested in community development, education, youth empowerment, and job creation. His scholarship schemes, employment initiatives, and support for artisans and small businesses have uplifted countless individuals, reinforcing his commitment to human capital development.
This award as “Man of the Year 2024” in Tourism and Hospitality is more than a personal achievement; it is a reflection of his capacity to lead, inspire, and transform. As Oyo State looks toward 2027 and the future of governance, it becomes increasingly evident that a leader like Dotun Sanusi—one who understands economic growth, community welfare, and sustainable development—is the right choice to steer the state toward greater heights. With his visionary mindset, pragmatic leadership, and unwavering commitment to progress, Dotun Sanusi is not just a man of hospitality; he is a man of the people, a symbol of hope, and the embodiment of the leadership Oyo State deserves.
This recognition only further cements his place as a worthy leader, a changemaker, and a future governor in the making.
