The Olubadan-In-Council, the highest body in the Ibadan traditional institution on Friday, nominated Oba Owolabi Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Following a meeting convened by Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, in the capital city of Oyo State, Ibadan, the kingmakers unanimously agreed to appoint Oba Olakulehin as the next Olubadan.
He was nominated by the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Gbadamosi Adebimpe who took the place of Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola who was supposed to nominate the next King but chose to be absent.
His name is expected to be sent to the state governor, Seyi Makinde, for approval, which will mark the first step of ascending the throne.
As per the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration, it stipulates that the Olubadan throne should be occupied interchangeably by the most senior high chief from either the civilian or military factions.
The meeting, which was attended by the Olubadan-designate was chaired by the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, a former governor of Oyo State, High Chief Ladoja.
Speaking to reporters after the gathering, Oba Olakulehin, in his second public appearance since the passing of Oba Balogun, expressed gratitude to the community for their prayers and assistance.
He said, “Thank you all for your support and prayers. Good things will never cease in your homes.”
Also speaking, the convener of the meeting, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, while fielding questions from newsmen, said, “In this meeting, we have concluded the appointment of the new Olubadan subject to the consent of the governor.
“The letter will go to the governor as soon as possible because it is being prepared by the South East Local Government.
“We hope that the governor will give his consent as soon as possible. As soon as he gives his consent, we will pick a date for the coronation. We pray that all of us will be alive to witness the day. Thank you for your endurance.”
Other members of Olubadan-in-Council at the meeting were Osi Olubadan, Eddy Oyewole Foko; Ashipa Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekerin Olubadan, Hamidu Ajibade; Ekarun Olubadan, Adebayo Akande; Osi Balogun, Lateef Adebimpe; Ashipa Balogun, Kola Adegbola; Ekerin Balogun, Dada Isioye and Ekarun Balogun, Abiodun Azeez.
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