A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibadan North, Hon. Kabiru Salami De-Bomba, has joined thousands of indigenes and well-wishers across the country in mourning the passage of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025.
In a personally signed statement, Hon. De-Bomba expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s passing, describing it as a monumental loss to Ibadanland, Yoruba land, and Nigeria as a whole.
“The death of Kabiyesi is a bitter pill to swallow. Though his reign was short, it was filled with grace, dignity, and fatherly leadership.
He was a symbol of peace and unity who carried the weight of our history with honor,” he stated.
Hon. Kabiru Salami De-Bomba extolled the monarch’s contributions to cultural preservation, peace-building, and traditional leadership, noting that the late Olubadan’s memory will continue to resonate for generations to come.
He also extended heartfelt condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and the entire Ibadanland, while commending Governor Seyi Makinde for standing with tradition and upholding the dignity of the Olubadan stool.
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, born July 5, 1935, ascended the throne in July 2024 following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun, and received his staff of office from Governor Makinde on July 12, 2024.
His reign, which lasted just a year, was officially celebrated only two days before his demise.
“May Kabiyesi’s soul rest in peace, and may his legacies of wisdom and unity continue to guide us,” Hon. De-Bomba added in closing.
