The Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Thursday, said he always knew he would ascend the revered ancient Olubadan stool.
Oba Olakulehin spoke while inspecting the newly built ultra-modern Olubadan Palace, five days after the state Governor, Seyi Makinde, demanded his health fitness.
He said “When we started the ladder (Mogaji), I asked, ‘Do we get to the climax?’ And they said yes. So, I knew that I would become Olubadan of Ibadanland. Now that we are there, we still need to pray to God because He has done good things for us in Ibadan. So, we must continue praise Him.”
It was reported that the governor on Saturday during the final burial ceremony of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, said Oba Olakulehin would be installed as the next Olubadan once he was strong enough.
This statement generated controversy among notable Ibadan indigenes, at home and abroad.
Makinde, who, however, confirmed that the state government had received the recommendation of Oba Olakulehin as the 43rd Olubadan by the Olubadan-In-Council, noted that due process had been followed in the selection process.
Oba Olakulehin said, “I am highly delighted to be among the living to inspect this project. So, we have to thank God. Ibadan people need to appreciate God for this.”
He was conducted around the new palace by the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, and other notable Ibadan indigenes.
Among the dignitaries were the Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Lateef Adebimpe; Ashipa Balogun, Oba Kolawole Adegbola; Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Abiodun Kola-Daisi and a host of others.