Oba Owolabi Olakulehin has received the staff of office as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He is 89 years old.
The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, presented the staff and instrument of office to the new king on Friday.
The presentation followed the crowning of Olakulehin at the Labosinde compound, “the family with exclusive right to crown Olubadan.”
Later, Oba Olakulehin moved to Ile Osemeji at Oja’ba area, where divination on the future of Ibadanland was revealed.
The new Olubadan, accompanied by members of Olubadan-in-Council, family members and well-wishers, moved to the frontage of the popular Mapo Hall.
In his address, Governor Makinde assured of his administration’s commitment to the upliftment of the traditional institution.
He congratulated the new king and urged him to work for the progress of Ibadanland.
he Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, who represented President Bola Tinubu, implored Oba Olakulehin to uphold the tradition and values that had made Ibadan a symbol of resilience and progress.
“As we look to the future, we acknowledge that there are challenges ahead but I am surely convinced that we can overcome these challenges with your majesty’s leadership quality, cooperation of all chiefs and the people.
“Let us not forget to live in unity, tolerance, mutual respect for one another and let us continue to strive for peace and understanding among ourselves so that Ibadan would continue to blossom,” Tinubu said.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Olakulehin thanked sons and daughters of Ibadanland for supporting his enthronement.
He pledged to rule the ancient city in a way that would fast-track more development.
Olakulehin equally appreciated the federal and state governments for their contributions toward the success of the coronation.
Among the dignitaries that attended the event were Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar; Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Deputy governors of Osun and Ondo states, Chief Kola Adewusi and and Dr Olayide Adelami respectively.
Chief of Staff to Gov. Babatunde Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Mr Tayo Ayinde, was also present.