By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Olubadan: Countdown to coronation, Olakulehin’s family unveils ‘Aso-Ebi’
The anticipation in Ibadan for the coronation of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, continues to grow. Despite the passing of Oba Lekan Balogun more than three months ago, the city remains in suspense, waiting for Governor Seyi Makinde to announce the coronation date.
The Olakulehin family has begun selling the ceremonial fabric, known as aso ebi, in preparation for the event. The Ankara fabric, featuring blue and black colors, and a striped yellow ofi fabric for caps and headgear, is available for purchase at Olakulehin’s residence in Alalubosa Estate, Ibadan.
Initially, there was a high demand for the fabric following the burial of Oba Lekan Balogun on March 14, 2024. However, the enthusiasm has since waned. The prices for the fabrics are N1,000 per yard for Ankara, N2,000 for the men’s cap, and N5,000 for the women’s headgear.
A family source expressed eagerness for the coronation, stating, “We are eagerly waiting. Baba is in high spirits. We believe God’s will shall be done. The delay by those in authority shall not be the denial for Oba Olakulehin.”
Ibadan, known for its peaceful succession process, has been without an Olubadan since March 14. This is the longest wait in recent history. Previous successions were completed within 21 to 68 days after the throne became vacant.
Governor Makinde, at the final burial ceremony of Oba Balogun on June 8, 2024, confirmed the legitimacy of Oba Olakulehin as the Olubadan-designate. However, he stated that the coronation would occur once Oba Olakulehin was deemed strong enough.
Senator Rashidi Ladoja, head of the Ibadan Kingmakers, clarified that the governor’s role is to present the staff and certificate of office, while the Oluwo of Ibadan is responsible for the coronation rites.
Oba Olakulehin’s journey to the throne began in 1983. His advanced age reflects the tradition that Olubadans often ascend the throne later in life, having spent many years climbing the succession ladder.
Historically, Olubadans have been older individuals, with many reigning for several years despite their age. Oba Olakulehin, at 89, will be one of the older Olubadans when he is eventually crowned. His journey from Mogaji to Olubadan has spanned 38 years, beginning in 1983 and culminating in his designation as the next Olubadan.
The people of Ibadan await the coronation with hope and anticipation, confident that Oba Olakulehin will soon ascend the revered throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Historical Context of Olubadan Ascensions
( Olubadan: Countdown to coronation, Olakulehin’s family unveils ‘Aso-Ebi)
The stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland became vacant on March 14, 2024, following the demise of Oba Lekan Balogun. Ibadan has a tradition of relatively quick successions:
1. Oba Yesufu Asanike: Died December 24, 1993; succeeded by Oba Emmanuel Adeyemo on January 14, 1994.
2. Oba Emmanuel Adeyemo: Died April 8, 1999; succeeded by Oba Yinusa Ogundipe Arapasowu on May 7, 1999.
3. Oba Ogundipe Arapasowu: Died July 8, 2007; succeeded by Oba Samuel Lana Odugade I on August 11, 2007.
4. Oba Samuel Lana Odugade I: Died January 19, 2016; succeeded by Oba Saliu Adetunji on March 4, 2016.
5. Oba Saliu Adetunji: Died January 2, 2022; succeeded by Oba Lekan Balogun on March 12, 2022.
6. Oba Lekan Balogun: Died March 14, 2024; pending succession by Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Controversies and Challenges
The delay in crowning Oba Olakulehin has been a subject of debate. The Otun Olubadan and head of the Ibadan Kingmakers, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, has emphasized that the governor’s role is limited to presenting the certificate and staff of office, while the actual coronation is the responsibility of the Oluwo of Ibadan.
Olubadan: Countdown to coronation, Olakulehin’s family unveils ‘Aso-Ebi
Ladoja stated, “Nothing is stopping Olakulehin from being crowned as the next Olubadan. The only thing that may stop him now is the non-presentation of staff of office and instrument of office which is the property of the government.”
On June 14, Oba Olakulehin inspected the ultra-modern Olubadan palace, expressing his anticipation and readiness for the coronation. He highlighted his long journey through the ranks, which began in 1983.
Succession Ladder in Ibadan
The ascension to the Olubadan throne is a lengthy process, involving 22 to 23 promotions through various traditional titles:
Balogun Line: Jagun Balogun, Ajia, Bada, Aare Onibon, Gbonnka, Aare Egbe Omo-Oota, Lagunna, Aare Ago, Ayingun, Asaju, Ikolaba, Aare Alasa, Agba Akin, Ekefa, Maye, Abese, Ekarun Balogun, Ekerin Balogun, Ashipa Balogun, Osi Balogun, Otun Balogun, Balogun, Olubadan.
Otun Line: Jagun Olubadan, Ajia, Bada, Aare Onibon, Gbonnka, Aare Egbe Omo-Oota, Lagunna, Aare Ago, Ayingun, Asaju, Ikolaba, Aare Alasa, Agba Akin, Ekefa, Maye, Abese, Ekarun Olubadan, Ekerin Olubadan, Ashipa Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, Otun Olubadan, Olubadan.
Each step in this ladder represents a significant milestone in the aspirant’s journey to the throne.
The people of Ibadan, known for their respect for tradition and cultural heritage, look forward to the coronation of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, believing it will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s storied history.
Olubadan: Countdown to coronation, Olakulehin’s family unveils ‘Aso-Ebi