The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, has died at the age of 81.
Oba Balogun, who ascended the throne of his forefathers just two years ago, drew his last breath on Thursday evening at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
The news of his demise was confirmed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Sulaimon Olanrewaju.
Oba Balogun was presented with the Staff of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde on March 11, 2022, marking the beginning of his reign as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Governor Makinde expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the revered monarch, describing him as a towering figure akin to an Iroko tree.
“With total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing unto glory of our father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland,“ the governor said.
“A mighty Iroko has fallen; Oba Balogun has joined the ancestors.
“In Kabiyesi, Ibadanland had a cosmopolitan and well-experienced Olubadan, who made indelible marks on the sands of history and achieved greatly within a short while.
“On behalf of the government and good people of the state, I condole with the immediate family of the Oba Balogun, the Olubadan-in-Council, the state Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland. It is my prayer that God grants repose to the soul of our late monarch.”
“The passing of Oba Dr. Balogun marks the end of an era for Ibadanland, leaving behind a profound void in its rich history and heritage,” he added.
The late Olubadan was born on October 18, 1942.
