Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, the Agba Ofin of Ibadanland and former Chairman of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, has mourned the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing his reign as short but profoundly meaningful and impactful.
In a heartfelt tribute on Sunday, Ayorinde said that although Oba Olakulehin’s time on the throne was brief, he brought stability, unity, and peace to Ibadanland in ways that will be remembered for generations.
“His reign may have been short in years, but it was full in meaning. Kabiyesi came, he reigned with honour, and he left us with peace. He was a royal father in every sense of the word,” Ayorinde stated.
He praised the late monarch for his calm leadership and commitment to preserving the values of the Ibadan traditional institution, adding that Oba Olakulehin’s peaceful disposition and fatherly guidance made a lasting impression on the city’s sociopolitical and cultural life.
“As the Agba Ofin of Ibadanland, I had the privilege of interacting with His Imperial Majesty, and I saw firsthand the humility, wisdom, and royal dignity he embodied. He was a unifier and a symbol of stability at a time Ibadanland needed such a figure the most,” Ayorinde said.
The senior advocate also acknowledged the late monarch’s respect for justice and fairness, stating that his reign reflected quiet service to all segments of society. “He led with maturity, encouraged unity among diverse interests, and carried everyone along,” he said.
Chief Ayorinde extended his condolences to the royal family of the late Olubadan, describing the loss as deeply personal and communal. “To lose a father, grandfather, and patriarch of such grace is a heavy burden. May the Almighty strengthen and comfort his family,” he said.
He also commiserated with the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, and the entire government and people of the state. “Kabiyesi was a stabilizing force whose wisdom and counsel were invaluable. His presence will be sorely missed in the governance and cultural life of our state,” he added.
Ayorinde urged the people of Ibadan to honour the late monarch’s legacy by living in peace and upholding the values he cherished—dignity, resilience, justice, and communal harmony.
“Let us preserve the legacy Kabiyesi left us. He was a true custodian of Ibadan’s heritage, and we must strive to continue on that noble path,” he said.
Chief Ayorinde concluded his tribute by praying for divine support for the Olubadan-in-Council, the royal family, and the entire Ibadanland.
“May the Almighty grant us wisdom to uphold the institution, and may His mercy shine upon the soul of our departed king. Oba Owolabi Olakulehin will be remembered always,” he said.
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin who ascended the throne in July 2024, died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, after spending a year on the throne.
His passing marks the end of a reign remembered for peace, dignity, and reconciliation.
