The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), has passed away just two days after marking his 90th birthday. The monarch reportedly died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025. His death comes less than a year after he was formally installed as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, having been crowned by Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on July 12, 2024.
Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran in what is now the Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State. He was the son of Pa Ishola-Okin Owolabi and Madam Adunola Aweni Ope Ajilaran Omoyoade Owolabi. His education began at St. James Primary School, Oke Akaran, and continued at Islamic School, Odoiye, before he completed his primary education at St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo, in Ibadan. He briefly worked as a teacher in Wakajaiye, Akobo, before proceeding to Yaba Technical Institute, where he studied printing and visual design.
In 1970, he joined the Nigerian Army through the Direct Short Service Commission and served in the Corps of Engineers. Rising to the rank of Major, he held several key command positions in Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos, before retiring from active service on October 1, 1979. Following his retirement, Oba Olakulehin ventured into business and founded FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction company, as well as Olakunlehin Press—later renamed Solid Prints—and FAKOL Bakery, all based in Ibadan.
He also had a notable political career. In 1992, he was elected to the House of Representatives under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Constituency. During his time in the National Assembly, he served as Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army.
Just two days before his passing, Oba Olakulehin celebrated his 90th birthday on Saturday, July 5. The milestone was recognized nationally, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu issuing an official tribute that praised the monarch’s decades of service to the nation, his leadership, and his role as a cultural custodian. In his message, the president described the Olubadan as a symbol of dignity, wisdom, and selfless commitment to community development and the preservation of Yoruba identity.
The passing of Oba Olakulehin marks the end of a remarkable life devoted to public service, military duty, business leadership, political involvement, and traditional stewardship. His legacy is expected to leave a lasting imprint on Ibadan and the larger Yoruba nation. Official announcements regarding burial arrangements are expected in the coming days.