Olubadan @ 90: Oyo Lawmaker Hon. Babalola Abiodun, PhD., Felicitates Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin

As Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, marks his 90th birthday today, one of Oyo State’s distinguished lawmakers, Hon. Babalola Abiodun, PhD, has extended heartfelt felicitations to the revered monarch.

Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin’s nine decades have been defined by dedication to public service and community upliftment.

A former army major and veteran politician—having served in the House of Representatives—he ascended the Olubadan throne following his coronation on July 12, 2024.

In a formal congratulatory message today, Hon. Abiodun described the Olubadan as an exemplary leader whose decades of prudent service, wisdom, and community devotion serve as an inspiration to all Oyo State citizens.

The lawmaker emphasized the monarch’s role as a unifying figure and urged continued leadership in preserving cultural heritage and steering sustainable development.

A jubilation service held at the Olubadan’s palace in Oke-Aremo drew political figures, traditional chiefs, and residents, celebrating both his 90th year and his first anniversary on the throne.

Tributes poured in from state and regional dignitaries, acknowledging his contributions to stability, peace, and infrastructural progress across Ibadanland.

Hon. Abiodun’s statement lauded the monarch’s vitality and called for the acceleration of youth mentorship and intergenerational leadership initiatives under His Majesty’s patronage.

Oba Olakulehin’s ascent to the throne at the age of 89 followed a decades-long journey through Ibadan’s unique dual-line chieftaincy pathway.

His reign has already seen the inauguration of a modern palace complex at Oke-Aremo in July 2024 and a renewed emphasis on cultural unity, with traditional titles and peace-promoting initiatives across Ibadanland.

As the Olubadan enters his tenth decade, Hon. Abiodun pledged continued collaboration between the Oyo State legislature and the Olubadan-in-Council. Their shared vision includes enhancing youth empowerment, traditional cohesion, and community-driven governance within Ibadanland.

In summation, Hon. Babalola Abiodun’s congratulatory note reinforces the enduring respect and collaboration between Ibadan’s modern leaders and its ancient throne.

It marks a promising juncture to celebrate tradition, progress, and intergenerational leadership under the 90‑year‑old Olubadan.