Owolabi Olakulehin, a former federal lawmaker, has been confirmed as suitable to ascend the throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland by kingmakers.
The confirmation came following allegations raised by Abimbola Ajibola, the Otun Balogun, regarding Olakulehin’s health.
Ajibola had expressed doubts about the fitness of the 84-year-old former military officer to assume the kingship.
During a crucial meeting convened at the Oja-Oba palace of the Olubadan on Friday, the Olubadan-in-council, comprised of 10 members, unanimously endorsed Olakulehin as deserving to be enthroned as the 43rd king of Ibadanland.
Notably absent from the meeting was Ajibola, who had earlier criticized Olakulehin’s suitability for the throne.
Speaking after the meeting, Rashidi Ladoja, Otun Olubadan and former governor of Oyo State, disclosed that the council would formally request the governor’s consent to their recommendation.
Once the governor’s consent is obtained, a date for the coronation will be announced.
“We thank everyone for the support, as we pray that all of us will be alive to witness the coronation,” Ladoja remarked.
The vacancy in the revered position of the Olubadan of Ibadanland arose following the passing of Olalekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan, on March 14. His younger brother, Kola Balogun, confirmed that the former monarch passed away at the age of 81 at the University College Hospital (UCH) after battling a “slight malaria fever.”
