The Olubadan-Balogun Dynasty and the story of two Senator Brothers. || Rotimi Johnson Ojasope

The Olubadan-Balogun Dynasty and the story of two Senator Brothers. || Rotimi Johnson Ojasope

In the annals of extraordinary familial achievements, the Balogun dynasty stands as a testament to the power of unity, service, and unwavering dedication. Senator Kola Balogun, the illustrious younger brother of the revered late Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba (Senator) Lekan Balogun, epitomizes these virtues in every facet of his remarkable story. Unprecedented in their legacy, the Balogun brothers scripted history by becoming not just one, but two distinguished Senators from the same lineage. Yet, fate had even grander designs for this exceptional family. As destiny’s hand would have it, Oba Lekan Balogun ascended to the revered throne of Olubadan, after the characteristically long wait and noble services to his people.

Throughout this monumental chapter in the Balogun saga, Senator Kola Balogun emerged as a steadfast pillar of support, an unsung hero in the shadows, ensuring his elder brother’s well-being and legacy were preserved for generations to come. With unwavering determination and boundless love, he tirelessly tended to Oba Lekan Balogun during his ailing days, enabling him to fulfill his destiny as the revered Olubadan. His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mohood Olalekan Balogun, the Okunmade 2, was the Senator that represented Oyo central district in the 4th National Assembly (1999-2023), while Senator Mohammed Kolawole Ademola Balogun served in the 9th National Assembly, representing the great people of Oyo South (2019-2023) with six local governments from Ibadan land and 3 from Ibarapa.

 With the above precedence, while Oba Olalekan Balogun was presiding over the traditional institution of the largest city of Yoruba people all over the world, for well more than a year of his two years reign, his beloved younger brother was the Distinguished Senator of the land.  Indeed, the Almighty God had been very benevolent to the Olubadan-Balogun family; it was a phenomenal reign of stability and prosperity for the Olubadan Council Institution, for which the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr Oluseyi Makinde attested to in his condolence message. 

Senator Kola Balogun, though closer to 70 than 60yrs, he is an embodiment of agility, diligence and very high sense of responsibility to Ibadan land and to the Olubadan Council Institution, which I strongly believe all the Obas in the Council can attest to. In a statement personally signed by Oba Olalekan Balogun and published by the Guardian on the 3rd of October, 2023; “I must publicly acknowledge the invaluable role my brother has been playing in my life. He is the only one that has been with me through thick and thin and it is not immodest for me to say that he towers above all of my children in attention and care for my life and well-being and for which I will be eternally grateful to the Almighty Allah for blessing me with such a wonderful brother; he is one in a million.” Senator Kola Balogun is not merely a brother but a precious gift from the divine. His meticulous attention to duty, unwavering patriotism, and boundless love for his family and community have illuminated the path for all to follow. Through his selfless actions, Senator Kola Balogun has not only exemplified the profound impact siblings can have on shaping destinies but has also set a sterling example of servant leadership for all to emulate. 

I am obviously human and limited in understanding but I can state unequivocally that Dr. Kola Balogun could not have had access to political ascension without Oba Olalekan Balogun’s prominence as Senator and notable leader in Ibadanland. Likewise, Oba Olalekan Balogun could not have eventually became the Olubadan without his younger brother, Senator Kola Balogun PhD; Senator Kola Balogun was his caregiver, Personality and PR manager, before and during his reign as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan.

Today, as we celebrate the extraordinary legacy and the 8th-day Fidau prayers of the Olubadan-Balogun dynasty, let us learn of the love of the Balogun brothers and Senators; boundless love, and their indomitable spirit. In their story, we find a beacon of hope, a symbol of resilience, and a true champion of destiny. 

Adieu His Imperial Majesty, Oba, Senator Mohood Olalekan Balogun (PhD), the Alli Okunmade II.

Signed.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope BSc, PGDPA, ANIPR, FPD-CR.
PR Consultant & CEO Darling International Servives.