The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, is expected to return to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following the conclusion of the 21-day mourning period for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, June 7, 2025, just few days after celebrating his 90th birthday. He was scheduled to mark his first coronation anniversary on Saturday, June 12, before his sudden demise. In line with Ibadan traditional customs, a mourning period of 21 days was observed in his honour.
Palace sources told journalists on Sunday that Oba Ladoja would likely make his first public appearance in Ibadan this week. According to them, preparations are ongoing by supporters and well-wishers to welcome him at his Ondo Street residence in Ibadan with a modest celebration.
A reliable palace source confirmed, “We are expecting Oba Ladoja any moment from now. The mourning period ends tomorrow (Monday). As he earlier said, he would observe the tradition of Ibadanland in honour of the late monarch. He has already paid his tributes. The press will be fully briefed in due time.”
In the meantime, plans for the burial of the late Oba Olakulehin are also underway. Palace insiders disclosed that he would be buried according to Christian rites, being a devoted member of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, in Ibadan. One of the sources hinted that the burial might take place on August 8, but noted that an official announcement is still being awaited.
“This is a state burial, so the government and the family are working together to agree on the date. Until they release an official statement, we cannot confirm anything yet,” another source said.
When contacted, the Chief Press Secretary to the late Olubadan, Mr. Gbenga Ayoade, said everything was proceeding as planned and assured that the family would soon release an official statement.
Efforts to reach the media aide to the Olubadan-designate, Mr. Adeola Oloko, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
