Olakulehin passed on in the early hours of Monday, two days after his 90th birthday.
Recall that the Monarch was presented with the staff of office as the 43rd Olubadan, by Seyi Makinde, Oyo state governor, on July 12, 2024.
AAN TV reports that his death comes a year after he ascended the throne.
Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin was a respected Nigerian monarch whose life spanned military service, politics, business, and traditional leadership. He became the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland in July 2024 and ruled with distinction until his passing on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. Here are ten notable things you may not have known about his extraordinary journey:
Below are ten facts about him:
- 43rd Olubadan: He was crowned the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on July 12, 2024, succeeding the late Oba Lekan Balogun.
- Final Days: He died peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025, just two days after marking his 90th birthday.
- Early Life: Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran, within today’s Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State.
- Military Career: He enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1970 through the Direct Short Service Commission, served in the Corps of Engineers, and retired as a Major in 1979.
- Political Service: In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Constituency, where he chaired the House Committee on the Nigerian Army.
- Entrepreneurial Pursuits: He established multiple businesses in Ibadan, including FAKOL Nigeria Ltd (a construction company), Olakulehin Press (later renamed Solid Prints), and FAKOL Bakery.
- Education: He attended Yaba Technical Institute and earned both Ordinary and Higher National Diplomas in Building from Yaba College of Technology.
- Path to the Throne: His ascendancy began in 1983 when he became the Mogaji (family head) of the Ige Olakulehin Family, progressing through the Balogun chieftaincy line over several decades.
- Faith and Character: A devout Christian, he was widely respected for his disciplined, faith-driven lifestyle and earned admiration from both religious and traditional circles.
- Family Legacy: He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, who continue to uphold his values and contributions to Ibadanland.
Oba Olakulehin’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and dedication to community, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Ibadan and beyond.
