Monarch’s Demise Comes Amid 90th Birthday Celebrations, One Year After Ascension to Throne

The ancient city of Ibadan has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its 43rd monarch, Oba Mohood Olalekan Balogun, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, who died early Monday morning at the age of 90.

The revered traditional ruler’s transition occurred during ongoing celebrations marking his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary. Oba Olakulehin had received the staff of office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, following the demise of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun.

Palace sources confirmed the monarch passed peacefully in his sleep at his private residence. The news has halted all coronation anniversary activities as the traditional council prepares for royal burial rites.

As custodian of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage, Oba Olakulehin’s one-year reign saw the resolution of several chieftaincy disputes and the preservation of traditional institutions amidst modernization pressures. His death triggers the immediate commencement of succession protocols under the Ibadan chieftaincy system.

The late monarch, a retired civil servant and businessman before his ascension, is survived by multiple wives, children, and grandchildren. The Olubadan-in-Council is expected to announce burial arrangements following traditional consultations.

This marks the third transition on the Ibadan throne since 2022.