The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Federal Government to immortalize the late Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Mo’hood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II.
The party stated that the call became necessary in recognition of the outstanding contributions of the late first-class traditional ruler to national unity, security, political and economic development of the country.
The late Oba Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, joined his ancestors on Thursday evening after a brief illness, at the age 81.
The foremost Ibadan traditional ruler was buried on Friday at the Aliiwo Compound, in accordance with the Islamic rite.
PDP, the main opposition political party in the country, stated this in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, dated 17 March, 2024.
The PDP also described the late Olubadan of Ibadanland as a highly revered royal father, a magnificent and compassionate traditional ruler who bestrode life like a colossus.
It commiserated with governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, the Royal Family, the Olubadan-In-Council, the people Ibadanland and Oyo State for the passing of the Olubadan, describing it as a huge national loss.
“The late Olubadan live a fulfilled life as a legend; a magnificent and compassionate king who with penetrating wisdom and transcendental glory bestrode life like a colossus.
“He defied impermanence, gained immortality even in the mortal realm and etched his indelible footprints on the sand of time.
“He was an incorruptible personality, an inexhaustible reservoir of our cultural heritage, interminable source of wisdom and vision; and, who with great virtuousness, led his people and made innumerable contributions towards the peace, unity and stability of our dear nation; legacies that will remain evergreen in the annals of Nigeria.
“The PDP stands with Governor Makinde, the Royal Family, the Olubadan-In-Council and the people of Ibadan and prays that we all receive comfort and fortitude at this critical moment,” Ologunagba stated in the statement.
