Pays Glowing Tribute To Late Olubadan Balogun
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, yesterday, said the Olubadan-elect, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, would be enthroned as soon as the royal father is strong.
Makinde gave the assurance during the final burial ceremony for the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium (former Liberty Stadium), Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Oba Balogun joined his ancestors on Thursday, March 14, this year, and was buried on Friday, March 15, after reigning for two years. The burial ceremony was organised by the state government.
The name of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is still before the governor, awaiting his approval as the 43rd Olubadan, having been duly nominated by the Ibadan kingmakers.
The governor said he and the late monarch did what many thought Napoleon could not do by amending the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration Law.
Makinde said: “Oba Balogun and I did what people thought Napoleon could not do. We did the amendment to the Chieftaincy Declaration. I approved the declaration and amendment. As soon as Oba Olakunlehin is strong, he will be enthroned.”
Makinde said the late Olubadan lived a fulfilled life. “Baba lived a fruitful and eventful life,” he added.
In her speech, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, described the late monarch as a scholar and corporate giant who touched many lives.
Dignitaries at the occasion included Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, former Deputy Governor Hazeem Gbolarumi, Taofeek Arapaja, Moses Alake Adeyemo, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Yusuf Buratai (rtd); Senator Kola Balogun and others.
The President General of the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Wole Ajewole, lauded Makinde and others who organised the event for the departed King.
