Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State and the political headquarters of the Southwest zone of Nigeria, wakes up to a new dawn on Friday, as a new monarch mounts the prestigious throne of Olubadan.
Nearly 40 years after he was installed as the Mogaji, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin fulfils his destiny today as the 43rd Olubadan. He is a royal father with a difference; a retired soldier, a consummate politician, businessman and a highly respected community leader.
89-year-old Oba Olakulehin is from the Okumagba family in Ita Baale area. A devoted Christian, his life is devoid of controversy. In 1992, he became a member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the proscribed Social Democratic Party (SDP). Before he became the Olubadan-designate, he was the Balogun.
He succeeded the late Oba Lekan Balogun from the Alli Iwo family; a great scholar and Senator on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) between 1999 and 2003. The deceased monarch was from the Otun line of succession.
Today, the ancient city will be aglow with festivities. Many musicians will be on stage in honour of the eminent traditional ruler, who has been sustained by hope as he climbed the 23 chieftaincy ladders before becoming the Balogun Of Ibadanland.
The new Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin is the first monarch to occupy the glamorous palace, inaugurated two days ago by Governor Seyi Makinde amid pomp. The edifice is situated at Oke Aremo, Yemetu. Architects described it as a a symbol of tradition and modernity, blending the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba with contemporary architecture.