Enthronement Process for New Olubadan to Commence Tuesday

By Abdulwahab Lanre

The journey to install a new Olubadan of Ibadanland is poised to begin on Tuesday, signaling the commencement of the traditional process following the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun.

The revered Olubadan Advisory Council is slated to convene on Tuesday to initiate the enthronement proceedings, adhering to age-old customs deeply rooted in Ibadan tradition.

The demise of Oba Lekan Balogun, who governed the ancient city for two years before his passing at the age of 81 on March 14, 2024, has left the esteemed throne vacant.

As per tradition, the Advisory Council will convene at the residence of the most Senior High Chief, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, former Oyo State governor, situated at his Bodija residence.

Sources close to the matter revealed that the Advisory Council, during the meeting, will nominate a successor to the late monarch, High Chief Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. This nomination process typically follows the eighth-day Islamic prayers for the deceased monarch, held on Friday, March 22, 2024.

Upon nomination, an affirmation document of Olakulehin’s candidacy will be forwarded to Governor Seyi Makinde through the Office of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

The rotational tradition of selecting occupants of the Olubadan stool between the Otun Line (Civil Line) and the Balogun Line (Military Line) remains intact. Oba Lekan Balogun, the immediate-past Olubadan, who ascended to the throne and served for two years, hailed from the Otun Line.