Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, currently serving as the Balogun of Ibadanland and head of the military lineage within the Olubadan system, is to ascend to the position of Olubadan of Ibadan following the passing of Oba Moshood Olalekan Balogun, the former Olubadan.
As per tradition, ceremonial drummers and chanters will begin their journey from Alli-Iwo to the Ita Baale palace of Oba Olakulehin, symbolizing his impending transition to the throne.
The late Olubadan and the incoming Olubadan hail from the same Ibadan North East Local Government area of Oyo State.
Notably, Olakulehin’s son, Sunbo Owolabi, served as the commissioner for water resources during the tenure of the late former governor Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi.
In accordance with tradition, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and senator, holds the position next in line to Olakulehin as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadan, leading the civil lineage.
The passing of Oba Balogun and the succession of another Olubadan will prompt advancements within the Olubadan system, particularly within the Balogun lineage, from which the new Olubadan will emerge.