Olubadan alive, hale and hearty – Oyo Govt

Olubadan alive, hale and hearty – Oyo Govt

Oyo State Government has dismissed reports indicating that the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is dead.

Several media outlets reported Monday night that the monarch had died at the age of 89.

However, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, refuted the claims, assuring the public that the Olubadan is alive and in good health.

“Yes, Olubadan is alive, hale and hearty. I spoke with one of his sons, Prince Olaseke Owolabi Olakulehin, who represented the family at the coronation committee,” Olatunbosun stated.

Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Gbenga Ayoade, also dismissed the rumours, affirming that the monarch was in good health.

“By the time I left the palace around 8pm, everything was normal. There was no crisis. When I later contacted the palace, I was told Baba is hale and healthy,” Ayoade said.

He also debunked speculations that the monarch had been flown out of Ibadan for medical treatment.

“Baba is still in Ibadan. He was not flown anywhere. He is doing very fine,” he stated.

Oba Olakulehin received his staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024 and he is due to celebrate his 90th birthday on July 5.