Fayemi Mourns Olubadan, Hails His Legacy of Unity, Cultural Preservation

By Emmanuel Kwada

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and erstwhile Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, has expressed profound grief over the passing of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Tuesday by the Fayemi Media Office in Abuja, Fayemi described the monarch’s death as a “monumental loss” to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.

Though brief, his reign was impactful in substance. He was a progressive royal father who used tradition to foster good governance, social development, and national unity

Fayemi extended his sympathies to the royal family, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State government, and the people of Ibadan, noting that Oba Olakulehin’s brief reign was defined by “peace, unity, and a commitment to cultural preservation.” He praised the late monarch as a statesman, intellectual, and bridge-builder whose contributions elevated the traditional institution.

Highlighting Oba Olakulehin’s distinguished career in the military, business, and politics, Fayemi emphasized that the monarch brought a wealth of experience to his leadership of Ibadanland. “Though brief, his reign was impactful in substance. He was a progressive royal father who used tradition to foster good governance, social development, and national unity,” Fayemi said.

Urging the people of Ibadan to find solace in the late Olubadan’s enduring legacies, Fayemi prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and the strength of the institutions he fortified. “May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he concluded.

The statement was signed by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Head of the Fayemi Media Office, Abuja.