Biography of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin: 43rd Olubadan Who Died Two Days After His 90th Birthday
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Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, passed away on July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary.
TJ News Nigeria can authoritatively report that his brief reign left a mark on Oyo State’s traditional and cultural institutions.
Born in the heart of Ibadan and rising through military, political, and traditional ranks, Oba Olakulehin’s life exemplified a legacy of service, humility, and leadership.
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Early Life and Education
Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja Village, Ita-Baale area of Ibadan North-East Local Government Area, Oyo State. He hailed from the Ige Olakulehin family, one of the royal lineages eligible to ascend the Olubadan throne.
His early education began at St. James Primary School (Oke Akaran), followed by Islamic School, Odoiye, and then St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo. After a brief stint as a teacher in Wakajaiye, he furthered his education in printing and design at Yaba Technical Institute, Lagos.
Military and Civil Service Career
In 1970, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC). He rose to the rank of Major, serving in key maintenance commands in Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos, before retiring from active military duty in 1979.
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Prior to joining the military, Oba Olakulehin also worked with the Western Region Ministry of Works, giving him technical and administrative experience that shaped his later ventures.
Political and Business Engagements
Following his retirement from military service, he founded FAKOL Nigeria Limited, a civil engineering and construction firm, and also ran Olakulehin Press (Solid Prints) and FAKOL Bakery.
In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency. During his tenure, he chaired the House Committee on the Army, further building on his military background.
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Journey Through the Ibadan Chieftaincy System
His climb to the throne began in 1983, when he was installed as the Mogaji (family head) of the Ige Olakulehin family. He progressed steadily through the traditional ranks:
- Jagun Balogun
- Aare Ago
- Osi Balogun
- Otun Balogun
- Balogun of Ibadanland
In 2016, he became the most senior high chief in the Balogun line, positioning him as next in line to the throne.
Coronation as the Olubadan
Following the passing of Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, Oba Olakulehin was declared the Olubadan-designate and formally installed as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on July 12, 2024 by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
As Olubadan, he led with humility and dignity, emphasizing unity, community development, and the preservation of Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
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Death and Cause
Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. His death came two days after his 90th birthday celebration and the first anniversary of his coronation.
While the cause of death was not officially disclosed, sources within the Ibadan traditional council indicated that the monarch died peacefully in his sleep. TJ News Nigeria learnt that arrangements for his burial were immediately initiated by the Olubadan-in-Council.
Religious Beliefs and Family
A devout Christian, Oba Olakulehin was active in religious activities and well-respected by Christian leaders in Oyo State. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, described his passing as a “shocking and painful loss.”
He is survived by his children, extended family, and numerous descendants across Ibadan and beyond.
Succession Plan
Under Ibadan’s rotational chieftaincy system, the next in line is the Otun Olubadan, former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, who hails from the Egbe Agba (civil line). The Olubadan throne alternates between the Balogun (military) and Otun (civil) lines of succession.
Governor Seyi Makinde has assured that the process of selecting the next Olubadan will be conducted with transparency and dignity.
Legacy
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin’s life was a model of service across four sectors — education, military, politics, and traditional leadership. Despite his short reign, his contributions to Ibadanland will be remembered for years to come.
He stood as a symbol of stability, wisdom, and heritage in one of Nigeria’s most historically significant cities.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin |
| Title | 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland |
| Born | July 5, 1935 |
| Died | July 7, 2025 |
| Reign | July 12, 2024 – July 7, 2025 |
| Profession | Military officer, Politician, Businessman, Traditional ruler |
| Religion | Christianity |
| State | Oyo State |
TJ News Nigeria mourns with the people of Ibadan and celebrates the life of a remarkable monarch whose legacy will endure through generations.
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