Senator Kola Balogun has described the death of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye, Ige Olakulehin I, as shocking and a deep loss to Ibadanland.
He stated this in a press statement in reaction to the passage of the foremost Ibadan traditional ruler who joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday.
Senator Balogun, a member of the ninth National Assembly, in the statement which he personally signed, described the late Olubadan as a man of destiny whose reign was peaceful and remarkable.
The late Olubadan, who clocked 90 years last weekend, would have been a year old on the throne this Friday, having succeeded the late Oba Dr. Sen. Lekan Balogun, CFR Alli Okunmade II who reigned between 11th March, 2022 and 14th March, 2024.
Senator Balogun recalled felicitating the late Olubadan on his birthday, just about 48 hours to his demise.
He said nothing could have been more shocking, especially as all Ibadan sons and daughters, both at home and in the Diaspora, were eagerly looking forward to the celebration of his first year anniversary on the throne.
“But, who are we to query the judgment of the Almighty Allah, the giver and taker of life?
“We can only thank Him for gifting us the late monarch who was fearless, bold, highly disciplined but very loving and for his peaceful reign, however short it may be,” Senator Balogun said.
He enjoined the immediate family of the late Olubadan to take solace in the fact that they had a father any child could be proud of and a traditional ruler that made a mark as a peaceful and highly respected monarch.
The Distinguished Senator condole Ibadan sons and daughters, both at home and in the Diaspora, on the loss of the father of all in the land.
He asked all to remember the family of the deceased in their prayers and to also pray for Ibadanland as the metropolis transits into another and new reign.
“I share with all the present moment of the loss of our illustrious monarch and father-figure and enjoin all of us to share thoughts of prayers with the family members and our land that peace may continue to reign and that may we continue to remain united.
“May Kabiyesi’s soul find repose in the bosom of his creator,” Senator Balogun added.
