Olakulehin will be installed when he’s strong enough – Seyi Makinde

The Governor Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde has said that the current Balogun of Ibadanland, Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin would be installed as the Olubadan when he is strong enough to complete the processes of his coronation.

Makinde made this declaration on Saturday in Ibadan, the state capital.

FIDELINFO recalled that the Olubadan stool became vacant as a result of the transition of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Mahood Olalekan Balogun, who joined his ancestors on 14th March this year.

Olakulehin had earlier been nominated and appointed as the 43rd Olubadan by the Olubadan-in-Council at a meeting presided by the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Makinde has however said that Olakulehin will only ascend the throne when he is strong enough for the coronation processes.

Makinde made this assertion during a burial ceremony organized by the state government for Oba Balogun.

The event was held at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, in the Oke Ado area of Ibadan on Saturday.

Makinde, while addressing the gathering, said that he had accepted the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council.

He however said that Olakulehin will be enthroned when he is strong enough to complete the processes.

“Those who don’t want us to celebrate Baba were the ones that sent the rain, but I have told people to charm the rain. As they continue that, continue to eat and drink and let us continue to celebrate our late kabiyesi.

“One thing that I want us to go home with today is that the late Kabiyesi and I did what they think Napoleon cannot do.

“Myself and the House of Assembly on Friday, 26th May, 2023 we amended the Chieftaincy Laws of Oyo State so that the governor don’t need to go to the Council of Chiefs to amend the Declaration of Obas.

“Myself and kabiyesi, we amended Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration. Those who have not seen it, let them go and look for it, that is the Declaration in force to enthrone the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council and I have accepted it.

“I have accepted it and we will, as soon as our father, Oba Olakulehin is strong enough, he will be enthroned because due process has been followed.”