The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is poised to take on the role of the next Olubadan of Ibadanland pending the ratification by the kingmakers in Ibadanland, according to Nigerian Tribune.
The scheduled meeting of the statutory kingmakers and members of the Olubadan-in-Council, including prominent figures like High Chief Rashidi Ladoja and Oba Eddy Oyewole, will convene at Mapo Hall to formalize the appointment of Oba Olakulehin.
Oba Olakulehin is expected to attend the meeting where his nomination will be endorsed by the kingmakers before it is presented to Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, for final approval.
Once approved by the state government, a coronation date will be set for the new monarch to commence his reign.
Despite speculations about Oba Olakulehin’s health following the passing of the previous Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, a family source assured that he is in good health and has been preparing for his new role.
“By God’s grace, Baba (Oba Olakulehin) will be in Mapo on Tuesday [tomorrow] for a meeting with the kingmakers where his nomination will be ratified and his name forwarded for approval to Governor Makinde.
“There is no cause for alarm over Baba’s health. He is hale and hearty.”
It will be recalled that the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Ladoja, had, at a meeting held at the Alalubosa residence of Oba Olakulehin on Friday, March 15, affirmed that the succession to the Olubadan throne is without any controversy, asserting that “we already have the Olubadan-designate.”
He also said the kingmakers will only have to approve the nomination, having already known who the next Olubadan of Ibadanland is.