After days of speculations about his non-appearance in public linked to his health status, the Olubadan-designate Oba Owolabi Olakulehin has returned to his Alalubosa Ibadan, residence.
His return allays fears his absence has generated among the Olubadan-in-council, Ibadan and environs.
FRESHPAGE.COM.NG recalls that the Olubadan stool became vacant following the death of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun at 81.
Speaking with newsmen after visiting the incoming monarch, the Osi Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lateef Adebimpe, who led other three high Chiefs to Olakulehin’s residence, said the Olubadan-designate is hale and hearty.
According to him, it is impossible for the Olubadan-in-Council to nominate Olakulehin unless they are sure that he is in good condition
He said: “It has been some time we have seen our Kabiyies Owolabi Olakulehin in our midst and we have been making arrangements for Olakulehin’s coronation ceremony, who is our new Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Read Also: Olubadan: 160 Years After Olugbode’s Reign, Okugbaja Family To Produce Next Monarch
“We thank God that he is hale and hearty, and very soon, he will ascend the throne of his fore fathers, we will relate what we see here to our colleagues. Also at the meeting was the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole; the Ashipa Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi and Asipa Balogun Olubadan, Oba Kola Adegbola
The next Olubadan, according to traditional arrangement in Ibadanland, is the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Going by Ibadan chieftaincy arrangement, for Olakulehin to become Olubadan, he must be nominated by the next person to him in his line, Otun Balogun Tajudeen Ajibola, at a meeting convened by the most senior chief in the other line, (Ladoja) within 21 days of the demise of the monarch.
The family of the incoming monarch has begun distribution of clothes for the coronation ceremony.
