By Laolu Elijah, Ibadan

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday said the Olubadan designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be installed as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland as soon as he’s strong enough to go through the process.

He said this during the final burial ceremony of the late Olubadan, Oba Mohood Olalekan Balogun, who joined his ancestors on March 14, 2024, at the age of 83.

The ceremony, which took place at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, attracted important dignitaries from all walks of life.

He spoke for the first time since the recommendation of the Olubadan in Council was forwarded to him about three months ago.

Governor Makinde said, “I have seen the recommendation of the Olubadan-in-Council, and I have accepted it. I have accepted it, and we will, as soon as our father, Oba Olakulehin, is strong enough, be enthroned as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.”

He applauded the process that led to the choice of Oba Olakulehin, saying due process had been followed in the selection process.

The downpour that took most of the day did not take the shine off the ceremony, which brought together politicians, traditional rulers, title holders, religious leaders, top government functionaries, and many others.

Speaking on the late Olubadan, whom he eulogised for bringing peace to the traditional institutions in the city, he explained that the House of Assembly and Oba Balogun did what no one could do by amending the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration Laws.

“Those who don’t want us to celebrate Baba were the ones that sent the rain, but I have told people to charm the rain. As they continue that, continue to eat and drink, and let us continue to celebrate our late kabiyesi

“One thing that I want us to go home with today is that the late Kabiyesi and I did what they think Napoleon cannot do.

“Myself and the House of Assembly on Friday, 26th May 2023, amended the Chieftaincy Laws of Oyo State so that the governor doesn’t need to go to the Council of Chiefs to amend the Declaration of Obas.

“Kabiyesi and I amended Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration. Those who haven’t seen it, let them go and look for it; that is the Declaration in force to enthrone the new Olubadan.”