The city of Ibadan has begun a 21-day mourning period following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died early Monday after a prolonged illness. The mourning, which commenced on Tuesday, aligns with the ancient traditions observed upon the demise of a reigning monarch.
Oba Olakulehin, who ruled as the 43rd Olubadan, passed away at a private hospital in Ibadan, sparking an outpouring of tributes and ceremonial observances across the city.
In accordance with custom, the Olubadan-in-Council will begin the process of selecting a new monarch at the end of the mourning period. Following the traditional succession hierarchy, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, is next in line for the throne.
His nomination is expected to be formally proposed by the Balogun Olubadan, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, and seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole. The official meeting to confirm this succession will be held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, within the Ibadan North Local Government Area.
Although Oba Ladoja was reportedly out of town when the news of Oba Olakulehin’s death broke, sources indicate he is expected to return soon to commence the necessary traditional rites ahead of his potential coronation.