After about four months of intrigues and doubts, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, presented the staff of office to the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Friday, laying to rest the insinuation that the governor was not favourably disposed to supporting the former lawmaker to emerge as Olubadan.
Following the demise of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun on Thursday, March 14, this year, there had been speculations and several interpretations that Makinde, for some political reasons, did not want Oba Olakulehin to emerge as the next Olubadan in accordance with the succession arrangements to the throne.
Makinde presented the staff of office to Oba Olakulehin at the ancient Mapo Hall, Oja’aba in Ibadan, in the presence of many dignitaries, which included the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adewusi Adeyeye; Sultan of Sokoto, Sheikh Abubakar Sa’ad; Oyo Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, representatives of Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti governors and others.
The governor said the coronation was a testament to the resilience of the people of Ibadanland.
While he wished Oba Olakulehin a successful reign, Makinde said: “They said they want to sabotage; they want to sabotage; we are here today at Mapo Hall. I, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State by the virtue of power conferred on me, hereby present the staff of office to the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. Let us say Kabiyesi!”
In his speech, which was presented by the Minister of Power, Adelabu, President Bola Tinubu said Oba Olakulehin’s journey to the throne was a truly remarkable story.
He said Nigeria remains grateful for the abiding legacy of the Olubadan dynasty, which has been a beacon of stability with its unique succession route to the throne, a tradition established since 1851.
“The whole country can learn from this rancour-free Ibadan kingship model,” he remarked. He seized the opportunity to also remind Nigerians of the need for unity in the country.
“I also take this moment to remind us that our collective prosperity is tied to our ability to work together in harmony. As we celebrate this coronation, let us not forget the importance of unity, tolerance and mutual respect. Let us continue to strive for peace and understanding among ourselves so that our great city may continue to blossom.
“In conclusion, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for sticking to the laid down traditional rules in approving the appointment and installation of His Royal Majesty.”
In his acceptance speech, Olakulehin appreciated President Tinubu, Governor Makinde, Ibadan land indigenes and other Southwest governors for their huge support, which he said has undoubtedly formalised his installation.
Speaking, Abiodun, who is also the chairman of Southern Governors Forum, said the ceremony marked the essence of monarchical tradition and stability of the southern region for years.
Earlier in her welcome address, Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, appreciated the administration in the country, especially in Oyo State, for continuously building good legacies and institutions, wishing the new monarch a successful reign.
