The Oyo State Government has debunked widespread social media rumors claiming that the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away at 89.
On Monday night, March 3, reports surfaced alleging the revered monarch’s death. However, Wasiu Olatunbosun, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, firmly denied the claims, assuring the public that Oba Olakulehin is in good health.
“Yes, Olubadan is alive, hale, and hearty. I spoke with one of his sons, Prince Olaseke Owolabi Olakulehin, who confirmed it,” Olatunbosun stated.
Palace Refutes Death Hoax
Supporting the government’s stance, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Gbenga Ayoade, also dismissed the false reports.
“By the time I left the palace around 8 PM, everything was normal. There was no crisis, and when I checked again later, I was assured that Baba is hale and healthy,” Ayoade said.
He further clarified that the monarch had not been flown out of Ibadan for medical treatment, contrary to some speculations.
“Baba is still in Ibadan and doing just fine,” he added.
Monarch Prepares for 90th Birthday
Oba Olakulehin, who ascended the throne following the passing of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Mahood Lekan Balogun, on March 14, 2024, is set to celebrate his 90th birthday on July 5.
The monarch officially received his staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, and remains active in his royal duties, according to palace sources.
Osun Monarch in FBI Custody
In a separate development, it was earlier reported that Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu in Osun State, has been detained by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over alleged conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering.
Oloyede, who ascended the throne in 2019, frequently traveled between Nigeria and the U.S. for personal and royal duties. However, his prolonged absence for over a year sparked concerns among his subjects, leading to growing speculation about his whereabouts.
