Eze Ndigbo of Ibadan and Yorubaland Mourns Olubadan, Hails Ibadan’s Exemplary Succession System

The Eze Ndigbo of Ibadan and Yorubaland, Dr. James Oramadike, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. In a statement issued in Ibadan on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, Oramadike not only paid tribute to the late monarch but also lauded Ibadan’s unique and seamless traditional succession system.

Dr. Oramadike extended his heartfelt condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, the entire people of Ibadan, and the family of the late Olubadan. He described Oba Olakulehin as a “symbol of unity and strength, whose leadership and wisdom would be deeply missed,” adding that his passing constitutes a “significant loss to the people of Ibadan.”

Beyond the mourning, the Igbo traditional leader particularly commended the well-established and rancour-free system of ascension to the Olubadan stool. He highlighted the rotational basis between the Otun Line and the Balogun Line, noting its efficiency in identifying the next monarch. This orderly system, he observed, has seamlessly presented Otun Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the most senior and rightful successor to the late Oba Olakulehin.

“I appeal to other kingdoms in Nigeria to evolve systems that would make succession to the thrones rancour free like the system in Ibadan,” Oramadike urged, pointing to the peace and predictability that characterize the Ibadan traditional leadership.

He further acknowledged the positive role played by Oba Rashidi Ladoja during his tenure as governor in fostering harmonious relations between Ibadan residents and the Igbo community, as well as other non-indigenous groups. Dr. Oramadike pledged the continued unwavering support and cooperation of the Igbo community towards the sustained progress and development of Ibadanland.

The late Oba Olakulehin’s brief reign, which lasted just a few days short of his first coronation anniversary, was marked by dignity and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people. His demise has elicited an outpouring of condolences from across the nation, with Ibadanland commencing a 21-day mourning period in his honour as preparations for the next succession unfold.